A 2023 meta-analysis found that outdoor temperatures were associated with increased cases of suicidal behavior, hospital admission for mental illness and poor community health and well-being.

Warning signs include feeling more irritable or agitated, difficulty concentrating or staying focused, trouble sleeping or increased conflicts with others.

Extreme heat impacts our mental health in a great many ways.  

When our body temperature rises and we start to sweat, it can make us feel uncomfortable and dehydrated, which can lead to feelings of frustration and fatigue. Also, when our sleep is interrupted because we’re hot, we may wake up needing to remove the comforter or lower the air conditioning. That can make it hard to get back to sleep, causing us to start the next day feeling groggy or irritable.

Here are some steps you can take to lessen the negative impact of extreme heat on mental health:

  • Stay hydrated by drinking cool water or juice. It will cool your body and calm your mind.
  • Reduce body temperature by wearing lighter, more breathable clothing or keeping a small fan handy.
  • Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or repeating a mantra like "this is only temporary" to get you through those extreme moments.
  • Seek support. If you start to notice a significant impact on your mental health, speak with a trained professional to figure out the root cause of your discomfort.

It may not be possible to lower the summer heat, but a few actionable steps can at least mitigate its effects and keep you cooler inside and out.