Heat Woes: Mental Health on the Rise in the Heatwave
psychological hazard posed by extreme heat conditions: crucial information to be aware of
Berlin (dpa/tmn) - It's more than just a sunburn. Extreme heat can be a serious threat to mental health, stressing out, triggering sleep disorders, and aggravating pre-existing mental health issues, says Andrea Benecke, the President of the Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists (BPtK).
According to the DGPPN, the number of aggressive incidents, psychiatric emergency room admissions, and suicides is on the rise when the mercury soars. Particularly at-risk are individuals with severe mental health issues, as they often struggle to protect themselves from the scorching sun on their own, and mental health issues are among the most prominent risk factors for heat-related fatalities.
What's at Stake for the Affected and Their Loved Ones
The BPtK has outlined specific recommendations for heat protection for the mentally ill:
- Seek shade, keep sipping water, and steer clear of strenuous activities.
- Alcohol, drug consumption, and intense sports can boost the risk of dehydration and overheating. So, avoid them as much as possible on sweltering days. If intense sports are a must, do them in cooler, shaded places, and chug plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Consult your doctor on medication adjustments during the heat and whether any adjustments are necessary.
- Discuss emergency contacts with your psychotherapist.
These tips aren't just for the mentally ill; they're a good idea for everyone during heatwaves.
THE ENVIRONMENT PLAYS A ROLE TOO
"It's crucial to safeguard mentally ill individuals from the damaging effects of the heat since they often can't protect themselves adequately due to their illness," declares the Psychotherapists' Chamber Berlin.
Those Little Ones are the Most Vulnerable
Children and teenagers are particularly susceptible to the heat due to their bodies' incomplete heat regulation mechanisms. They sweat less effectively, dehydrate more quickly, upping the risk of heat strokes and circulatory issues. Existing ailments can worsen with heat.
The heat also exacerbates psychological stressors in children. Irritability, restlessness, concentration problems, sleep disorders, aggression, and emotional volatility are common in children during heatwaves, while in adolescents, conditions such as depression, social isolation, emotional vulnerability, or impulsive behavior are intensified.
When is the Heat a Menace?
When the actual temperature exceeds 30°C during the day and fails to fall below 20°C at night, heat can become hazardous. Prolonged exposure to excessive heat can lead to severe physical reactions and even a psychological emergency, known as a "heat emergency." Immediate medical attention is crucial in such situations.
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- The recent heatwave can have serious implications for mental health, as it can lead to stress, sleep disorders, and aggravate pre-existing mental health issues. [science, health-and-wellness, mental-health]
- In the heat, children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable due to their bodies' incomplete heat regulation mechanisms, which can lead to heat strokes and circulatory issues, and exacerbate psychological stressors. [health-and-wellness, mental-health]
