Extreme heat can be difficult to cope with for those who already have mental health issues, and it can even trigger mental disorders. Let’s take a closer look at the relationship between the two.
Extreme heat not only has a physical impact on the body, but also on the mind. Climate change is wreaking havoc across the world, including India. Many other countries are also seeing record temperatures, with India recently recording a maximum temperature of 52 degrees in the north. Extreme heat can also have a severe impact on mental health, which is why more attention needs to be paid to this issue and special precautions need to be taken.
How does heat affect our mental health? First of all, we all know that extreme heat can cause heatstroke, fatigue, and stroke. In addition to that, people who have had sleepless nights due to uncomfortable temperatures may feel irritable and upset all the time. These reactions to heat are actually quite normal, as it stops your brain from functioning properly and affects your mood.
Heatwaves can affect people’s mental health
- People suffering from chronic illnesses.
- People with dementia, which can lead to hospitalization and death.
- People facing economic difficulties.
- People with pre-existing mental illnesses.
- Pregnant women may be affected by fever.
- People who suffer from substance abuse problems.
