Heatwaves Could Be Making You Anxious And Depressed — Doctors Explain Why (Image Credits: iStock)
As Delhi faces another spell of extreme heat, experts warn that rising temperatures don’t just cause sunburn or tiredness—they can also seriously impact mental health. While most people associate heatwaves with dehydration, sunburn, and fatigue, experts warn that prolonged exposure to high temperatures can deeply affect your mood, emotions, and mental clarity.
“High temperatures can disturb how our brain works, especially chemicals like serotonin and dopamine that control mood,” says Dr Shaunak Ajinkya, Consultant Psychiatrist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai.
When these chemicals are affected, people may feel more irritated, anxious, or even aggressive. A 2023 study by Christopher Thomas in the Journal of Criminal Justice found that crime and violence often go up when temperatures rise. The reason? More frustration and short tempers due to the heat.
Why Does Heat Affect the Mind?
Dr Ajinkya explains that high temperatures activate the body’s stress system. “Heat increases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. This can lead to mental fatigue, anxiety, and mood changes,” he says.
Another problem is poor decision-making. A 2022 study by Stephanie Pappas published in the Indoor Air Journal showed that people don’t think as clearly in hot conditions. “Heat can affect attention, memory, and reaction time,” adds Dr. Ajinkya.
And if you’ve been sleeping poorly during these warm nights, you’re not alone. Experts say hot weather can reduce both the quality and amount of sleep.
“Proper sleep is very important for mental health. When people can’t sleep due to the heat, they feel tired, low, and even depressed,” says Inderjeet Singh, Senior Psychologist at Tulasi Healthcare, New Delhi.
Mood Swings, Stress, and Everyday Frustrations
Many people in Delhi are feeling the heat—emotionally, too. “Irritability and mood swings become more common during summer,” Singh explains. “Constant sweating, dehydration, and discomfort make people feel frustrated. Small daily problems feel much bigger when we are physically and mentally tired.”
He adds that the heat also makes daily tasks harder. “Whether it’s commuting in hot vehicles or cooking in warm kitchens, it drains people out and increases stress levels.”
People With Mental Health Conditions Are More at Risk
For people already dealing with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder, the heat can make things worse.
“High temperatures can trigger psychotic episodes in some individuals,” Dr. Ajinkya says. “Some psychiatric medicines also reduce the body’s ability to handle heat, which can lead to dizziness, confusion, or other side effects.”
Singh says the heat also affects motivation. “People might feel too drained to follow their routines or attend therapy. This can cause their condition to get worse.”
Children and the Elderly Need Special Care
Both experts agree that children and older adults are especially vulnerable.
“Children may become fussy, cranky, or emotionally sensitive,” Singh says. “Elderly people often stay indoors due to the heat and may feel lonely or sad.”
Caregivers, too, may feel overwhelmed. “Taking care of kids or elderly family members in this heat can cause emotional exhaustion for parents and helpers,” he adds.
Heat Can Lead to Serious Mental Health Emergencies
Some studies have shown a connection between high temperatures and increased suicide rates. A 2019 study by Kim et al. in the Environmental Health Perspectives journal found that suicides went up as temperatures rose.
“During heatwaves, hospitals often see more mental health-related emergencies,” Dr. Ajinkya warns. “The link between heat and mental health is complex and serious.”
How to Stay Mentally Healthy in the Heat
Experts suggest simple steps to protect mental well-being during hot weather:
Avoid going out during peak heat hours.
“Don’t ignore signs like extreme tiredness, mood changes, or trouble sleeping,” says Singh. “These can be early signs that heat is affecting your mental health.”
Dr Ajinkya adds, “If you have a mental health condition or are on medication, speak to your doctor about how to stay safe during hot weather.”
As Delhi and other parts of India continue to face rising temperatures, it’s important to remember that heat doesn’t only harm the body—it can disturb the mind too.
“We need to start taking the mental effects of heat seriously,” says Dr. Ajinkya. “Staying cool isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your emotional well-being too.”
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world.
