Have you ever noticed you feel more anxious or stressed when it gets really hot outside?
Well, you’re not alone.
Research shows the heat can actually mess with your mood.
“Studies indicate that excessive heat triggers feelings of anxiety, agitation, irritation, and cognitive difficulties,” said Dr. Susan Albers, a psychologist for Cleveland Clinic. “In fact, during heat waves, we see an increase of suicides, substance use, domestic violence and emergency room visits due to mental health issues. The heat doesn’t cause mental health issues, but it does exacerbate many of the symptoms that people experience.”
Albers said in extreme temperatures, our bodies have to work harder to keep us cool and that can cause the release of cortisol. Cortisol is our body’s main stress hormone.
She notes the heat can also disrupt our sleep, which can make us more irritable and also make it harder to focus and function in general.
The best way to combat these issues is by drinking plenty of water.
Eating foods with high water content can be helpful too. Some examples include cantaloupe, strawberries, watermelon and grapes.
“It’s important to stay cool. You can do this by staying indoors. Don’t go out between the hours of 10 and 4, the hottest part of the day,” said Dr. Albers. “If you don’t have air conditioning, you can go to the library, walk around a shopping mall. You can also take a cold shower or put a cold washcloth on your forehead. This is going to instantly help with the cognitive symptoms that you may be experiencing during heat waves, such as focus and attention.”
Albers said to be sure to keep an eye on signs of heat exhaustion.
They can include heavy sweating, dizziness, fatigue, headache, fast heartbeat, swelling in the hands and feet, and low blood pressure when you stand up.