A temperature rise brings physical and mental risks. In Pakistan, the effects of heat waves on mental health are an emerging crisis.
While much attention is given to the physical dangers of heat waves, the impact on mental health is often overlooked. Emerging studies are increasingly highlighting the severe mental health risks posed by rising temperatures. A recent analysis published in Nature Climate Change reveals that heatwaves and temperature spikes are not only linked to increased hospital admissions for mental health disorders but are also associated with higher rates of substance abuse and aggressive behavior [1].
The study indicates that for every 1°C rise in temperature, there is a significant uptick in the prevalence of mood disorders and anxiety-related conditions [2]. This growing body of evidence underscores the pressing need to consider mental health as a critical aspect of climate change adaptation strategies as the psychological toll of extreme heat becomes more evident. In the sweltering heat, not just our bodies suffer—our minds are also at risk.” Heat waves can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and even trigger new ones.
Increased Anxiety and Stress
During heat waves, many people experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress. Dr. Asim Shah, a professor and executive vice chair of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Baylor College of Medicine, highlighted that prolonged sun and heat can alter serotonin levels—a neurotransmitter crucial for regulating mood, behavior, and sleep [3].
These changes in serotonin can result in mood swings, including increased feelings of anger, frustration, and irritability, as shown in previous studies. When the heat is relentless, so is the stress. The discomfort and disruption caused by extreme temperatures can lead to irritability, restlessness, and a sense of helplessness. “The suffocating heat can make life overwhelming, turning small problems into big ones.”
Aggravation of Mental Health Disorders
The Climate, Aggression, and Self-control in Humans (CLASH) model suggests that higher temperatures can undermine self-control and future planning, heightening aggression and increasing the likelihood of violent behavior [4]. Economic factors also play a significant role in this dynamic. Climate change drives more frequent extreme weather events like heatwaves, droughts, and floods, and these disasters can lead to food shortages and economic setbacks, hitting vulnerable communities the hardest.
The resulting rise in income inequality and poverty can foster feelings of resentment and dissatisfaction, potentially fueling aggressive and violent behavior. For those already living with mental health disorders, heat waves can be particularly challenging. “The heat can push those on the edge, over it.” Conditions like depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder can worsen in extreme heat, leading to more severe symptoms.
“When your mind is fragile, the heat can be the final straw.” Heat can lower our tolerance for frustration, leading to more frequent and intense arguments and, in some cases, violent behavior [5]. “In the heat of the moment, the heat itself can be the trigger.”
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups are more susceptible to the mental health effects of heat waves. “The heat doesn’t discriminate, but some minds are more vulnerable than others.” These groups include:
- The elderly; are more prone to heat-related stress and cognitive decline.
- People with pre-existing mental health conditions may see their symptoms worsen.
- Those living in poverty often lack access to cooling and are more exposed to the stress of heat.
Urban Heat Islands and Mental Health
The “urban heat island effect” can intensify heat waves in densely populated areas. “In the concrete jungles, the heat doesn’t just bake the streets—it bakes the mind.” The lack of green spaces and the abundance of heat-absorbing materials like asphalt can make cities much hotter than surrounding areas, exacerbating the mental health impacts[6].
Coping Strategies
“When the heat is unbearable, it’s not just about cooling down your body—it’s about cooling down your mind.” To mitigate the mental health impacts of heat waves, it’s important to:
- Ensure access to cool environments through air conditioning, fans, or public cooling centers.
- Dehydration can worsen mental health symptoms, so drinking plenty of water is crucial.
- Social isolation can intensify the mental strain of heat waves. Keep in touch with vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors.
Future Outlook
As climate change increases the frequency and intensity of heat waves in Pakistan, the mental health impacts will likely grow. “The future is hotter—and so are the challenges for our minds.” Addressing the mental health effects of extreme heat will require a comprehensive approach that includes public health strategies, community support, and individual coping mechanisms.
As Pakistan faces rising temperatures, understanding and addressing the mental health impacts of extreme heat is crucial. “In the battle against the heat, protecting our minds is just as important as protecting our bodies.”
References
- Climate change debates. Nature Climate Change, 2024. 14(8): p. 769-769.
- Rony, M.K.K. and H.M. Alamgir, High temperatures on mental health: Recognizing the association and the need for proactive strategies-A perspective. Health Sci Rep, 2023. 6(12): p. e1729.
- Lambert M, Jambon S, Depauw S, David-Cordonnier MH. Targeting Transcription Factors for Cancer Treatment. Molecules. 2018 Jun 19;23(6):1479. doi: 10.3390/molecules23061479. PMID: 29921764; PMCID: PMC6100431.
- Van Lange, P.A.M., M.I. Rinderu, and B.J. Bushman, Aggression and violence around the world: A model of CLimate, Aggression, and Self-control in Humans (CLASH). Behav Brain Sci, 2017. 40: p. e75.
- Tonnaer, F., M. Cima, and A. Arntz, Explosive Matters: Does Venting Anger Reduce or Increase Aggression? Differences in Anger Venting Effects in Violent Offenders. Journal of Aggression, Maltreatment & Trauma, 2020. 29(5): p. 611-627.
- Farshid, A., et al., Urban green space cooling effect in cities. Heliyon, 2019. 5(4): p. e01339.
More by the author: “Speak on behalf of Mother Nature before we can’t”— Communicating Environmental and Healthcare Awareness
Sadaf Sarfraz, currently a lecturer, holds an MPhil in Molecular Pathology and Genomics, complemented by a BSc in Medical Laboratory Technology. Contributing as a healthcare writer at Scientia-Pakistan, she passionately engages in calligraphy and art.
