How heat can impact your mental health, medication

Ya-Marie Sesay
·1 min read

WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — Everyone has had at least one of those days when the sun is in your face, you’re sweaty, irritated and just can’t think straight – and health experts say that’s all because of extreme heat.

It can increase irritability, depression, anxiety, and aggression.

The D.C. Department of Behavioral Health is warning people that hot temperatures can worsen mental health symptoms, and certain medications can affect body temperatures.

To stay cool, experts advice to avoid direct sun if you can, stay hydrated, wear loose clothing and take advantage of cooling centers, and pools.

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According to the National Institute of Health, chronic heat and mental health can take a toll on some people.

So its best to find strategies like breathing exercises, meditations, therapy or counseling.

Certain medications can also increase heat sensitivity, so you might notice reduced thirst, more sweating, mental fatigue, interference with central thermoregulation, volume depletion, hypertension and or reduced cardiac output.

Experts say to be sure to stay hydrated and stay out of the heat as much as possible.

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