Amidst the ongoing surge in temperatures this summer, it's crucial to bear in mind that the sweltering heat isn't just affecting our physical well-being but is also taking a toll on our mental health.
The escalation of cortisol levels due to the rising heat can act as a trigger for stress responses, resulting in moodiness and agitation among individuals. The parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for inducing a sense of calmness and relaxation, becomes less active in higher temperatures, rendering us more susceptible to stress.
The mental health repercussions of intense heat are commonly experienced and encompass feelings of listlessness, disruptions in sleep patterns leading to insomnia, heightened irritability, anger, anxiety, depression, and stress. While these psychological reactions might appear temporary, their implications can be substantial. According to a 2022 study published in JAMA Psychiatry, which encompassed a sample of over 2 million individuals, there was a notable surge in visits to hospital emergency rooms for mental health concerns during extremely hot days. This span of nine years witnessed an increase in visits linked to substance abuse, anxiety, mood disorders, and schizophrenia during periods of elevated temperatures.
Sharp spikes in temperature also impede sleep and disrupt the functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain, resulting in a direct impact on cognitive function and efficiency at work, school, and home. A study conducted in 2018 examined the varying influence of air conditioning on cognitive abilities in young adults residing in college dorms during a heatwave. Some students enjoyed the comfort of central air conditioning, maintaining their dorms at a pleasant 71°F, while others inhabited rooms lacking air conditioning, which exposed them to temperatures hovering around 80°F.
Over the course of two weeks, these students participated in a series of tests administered on their mobile phones each morning. Those who endured the warmer dorm conditions consistently exhibited lower performance levels in the tests. These assessments encompassed a basic math exam involving simple addition and subtraction, along with the Stroop test—a task involving the integration of colors and words designed to evaluate cognitive processing.
Furthermore, another study demonstrated that peak workplace productivity is observed at an air temperature of around 72 degrees Fahrenheit, with productivity beginning to decline as temperatures reach the mid-70s. The findings across these studies collectively point to a diminished capacity to think lucidly, promptly, and efficiently when the body is subjected to overheating.
While it might appear intuitive, maintaining proper hydration can help mitigate the impact of heat on mental health. Dehydration is a common occurrence during extreme temperatures and can exacerbate impairments in cognition and mood disturbances. People frequently underestimate the amount of fluid they need to replenish when faced with excessive sweating or prolonged outdoor exposure. Additionally, specific medications might contribute to or intensify dehydration. Tip: subtract half of your body weight. For example, if a person weighs 200 lb, you would subtract 100 and turn the other 100 into oz. In other words, if you drink 6 (16.9 oz) ounces of bottled water, that would equal 101.4 oz
It's imperative to grasp that the repercussions of climate change extend beyond the environment, profoundly affecting both our physical and mental well-being. Recent studies featured in the Lancet and Nature Climate Change have revealed that even a minimal increase of 1 degree Celsius in temperature can worsen rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide. The discourse concerning enhancements in public health cannot be isolated from conversations regarding strategies to mitigate climate change.
For more information, contact Chris at 408-915-1321
Chris Packham, LAADC, MSW, M-RAS, CCDS, CADTP IV
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