High temperatures don’t just strain the body; they can also have a significant impact on mental well-being, posing serious risks for those with mental health conditions. According to Dr. Andrea Benecke, president of Germany’s Federal Chamber of Psychotherapists (BPtK), hot weather can lead to decreased alertness and productivity, worsening symptoms of mental illness, and increased admissions to psychiatric hospitals. This makes individuals with mental health issues particularly vulnerable during heatwaves.
Those at the highest risk include people with addictive disorders, schizophrenia, dementia, depression, and individuals taking certain psychotropic medications such as neuroleptics, antidepressants, anticholinergics, or sedatives. Hot weather has been linked to elevated suicide rates and can impair cognitive performance, increasing the likelihood of impulsive, risky, and aggressive behavior.
The BPtK warns that heat becomes particularly dangerous when the apparent temperature—a combination of air temperature, humidity, and wind speed—exceeds 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day and doesn’t drop below 20 degrees Celsius at night. In such conditions, the risk of psychiatric emergencies and serious physical reactions that require immediate medical attention increases.
This issue is becoming more prevalent in cities like Hong Kong, where very hot weather warnings are becoming more frequent. An apparent temperature of 32 degrees Celsius in the early afternoon can lead to strong heat stress, while temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius can cause very strong heat stress. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially during heatwaves defined as temperatures exceeding 28 degrees Celsius for more than three consecutive days, is particularly taxing on both the body and mind.
Certain medications can impair the body’s ability to regulate core temperature, and hot weather can alter the effectiveness of these medications, either reducing their potency or intensifying their side effects. The BPtK advises individuals with mental health conditions to take precautions during hot weather by staying in the shade, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding physical exertion.
Alcohol, drugs, and vigorous exercise increase the risk of dehydration and hyperthermia, so they should be avoided on hot days. If physical activity is desired, it’s best to choose a cool, shady location and stay well-hydrated.
It’s also crucial for individuals on medication to consult with their doctor about any necessary adjustments during hot weather and to speak with a psychotherapist about how to manage potential psychiatric emergencies. Taking these steps can help protect mental and physical health during extreme heat.
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