“The extreme heat is a risk factor underestimated for psychological well -being. Not only those who already have a psychiatric diagnosis, but can also influence the mental balance of those who are healthy. Being aware of this bond allows you to adopt concrete strategies to protect themselves, especially in the hottest months.
The heat as a stress factor for mind and body
To keep body temperature constant, our body activates complex physiological mechanisms, such as sweating and vasodilation. During heat waves, these responses become more intense, generating fatigue, dehydration, difficulty concentration and insomnia. Physical effects that inevitably reflect on mental health.
As the Dr. Beatrice Casonipsychiatrist at the Errese dental medical clinic of Ferrara“The heat can exacerbate irritability, nervousness and mood changes, especially when night rest is disturbed”.
What science says: data and correlations
A study published on Jama Psychiatry He highlighted an increase in hospitalizations for mood disorders in periods of intense heat. High temperatures can alter the production of serotonin, interfere with the circadian rhythms and reduce the quality of sleep, aggravating depressive and anxious symptoms.
The impact can still be more marked in people who already suffer from psychiatric disorders. Some drugs, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics, they can interfere with the thermoregulation, By reducing sweating and vigilance, and increasing the risk of decompensation during extreme heat.
Anxiety, warm and “vicious circle”
The heat can amplify the typical physical symptoms of anxiety, Like tachycardia, a sense of thoracic oppression, frantic breath and sweating. These sensations, common in summer, can be interpreted by those suffering from anxiety disorders such as signs of an imminent panic attack, triggering an alarm cycle and further physical activation. To this is added the impact of the reduction of social activities and outdoor timewhich can increase the perception of isolation and frustration, especially among those who live alone.
Who risks more
According to Dr. Casoni, the most vulnerable people to the psychological effects of the heat are:
- The elderly
- Those who live alone or in non -air -conditioned environments
- Those suffering from previous psychiatric disorders
- Children and young adults
Even in mental health subjects irritability, fatigue, decrease in mood and reduced ability to face daily stress during heat waves may occur.
An American study recorded a increase of 8% of access to the emergency room for psychiatric reasons on the hottest days compared to the freshest ones. Source: Environmental Health Perspectives, 2022
What can be done: protection strategies
- Hydrate regularly and follow one diet rich in fresh and light foods, favoring fruit and vegetables.
- Avoid exits in the hottest hours, looking for shaded or air -conditioned environments.
- Encourage quality sleep, also with the use of fans or air conditioners.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dehydration.
- Speak with a specialist if you notice a worsening of one’s emotional state.
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