The impact of sweltering summer temperatures on mental health often goes unnoticed amidst discussions on beating the heat. Record-breaking summer heatwaves are becoming increasingly common, with July 2023 marking the hottest month ever recorded. This rise in temperatures, driven by human activities, can have harmful effects on mental health.
'I fell in love with an AI chatbot - it understands me in a way humans do not' 'Woke' people more likely to be anxious and depressed, new study reveals While warm weather generally improves mental health, extreme heat can lead to irritability, anger, discomfort, sleep disturbances, and cognitive issues. Summer Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a less-recognized condition that causes major depression during the summer months. Research indicates a connection between neurotransmitter dysfunction, heat intolerance, and depression in summer SAD.
Studies reveal that mental health crises, including substance use disorders and anxiety, tend to increase on the hottest days of the year. Regions with lower air conditioning usage have been observed to experience higher rates of mental health-related emergencies during heatwaves. Maintaining mental well-being during hot weather is crucial.
Recommendations include doing outdoor activities early in the day, staying indoors during peak heat hours, and using cooling methods like cold showers or washcloths. DON'T MISS..
. 'I fell in love with an AI chatbot - it understands me in a way humans do not' 'Woke' people more likely to be anxious and depressed, new study reveals 'I visited Disney 300 times and was depressed - I've been cured by Universal' It's important to be aware of the effect of heat on children and to look out for signs of emotional distress in loved ones. Individuals experiencing mental health challenges should be extra vigilant during prolonged heatwaves and seek support from mental health providers or physicians if needed.
Monitoring changes in daily functioning, appetite, and sleep can help identify potential struggles and ensure timely intervention..
