Researchers have found a clear connection between extreme heatwaves and a surge in mental health-related emergency room visits. These visits span a range of conditions, including mood and anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, schizophrenia, and even suicide risk, according to a study published in JAMA Psychiatry in February 2022.
"What the data shows is that heat acts as an external factor that worsens existing mental health conditions," said Amruta Nori-Sarma, PhD, MPH, professor of environmental health at Boston University. "What’s striking is that it affects a wide range of disorders that aren’t typically linked."
So, what’s behind the link between heat and mental health? While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, researchers suggest that heat increases overall stress by making the body uncomfortable and disrupting sleep. Nori-Sarma also noted that extreme heat may trigger anxieties about climate change, amplifying distress.
If you have noticed increased irritability, restlessness, or mood swings, it could be related to the sweltering South Florida heat. Here are a few ways to cope:
- Keep your home as cool as possible
- Stay hydrated
- Wear sunscreen and dress accordingly
- Avoid peak sun hours
- Use fans and ventilation
- Plant shade trees
- Enjoy the great indoors
During extreme weather, prioritizing comfort and mental well-being can make all the difference.
Source:
How Extreme Heat Can Worsen Mental Health
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