AUSTIN, Texas — Extreme heat has killed at least 30 people in the last week and the death toll is rising. Along with the dangerous physical health consequences, health experts are also sounding the alarm about the significant impact on mental health. Some studies show that exposure to extreme heat can increase the risk of depression by more than 30%, anxiety by 70%. and both by over 87%.
Young people are particularly at risk given the potential impact of heat-related mental health effects on developing brains, according to a recent report by the American Psychological Association and EcoAmerica. Baylor College of Medicine psychiatrist Dr. Asim Shah explains how heat affects mental health.
“When you have excessive heat, it results in effects like irritability, agitation, anger, outbursts or people getting moody,” Dr. Shah said.
Along with mood changes, excessive heat has also been linked to increased emergency room visits, heightened symptoms in those with a pre-existing mental health condition, dehydration after drinking alcohol, and increased illness in those taking certain medications.
For many across the U.S., excessive heat is a reality that can’t be avoided. Health experts offer the following suggestions to less the dangerous affects of extreme heat:
Cover your head when outdoors. Wear a cap or sun visor.
Drink fluids with electrolytes like Gatorade, lemonade or Powerade to replace those that are lost when you sweat.
Consult with a physician to see if your medication may need to be adjusted.
Speak with a counselor to help manage any mood changes.