People may not realize that summer heat can play a role in mental health and wellness. Hot temperatures and humidity can adversely affect the most vulnerable members of the population in the extremes of ages - babies and young children as well as older adults age 65 & older. Both may be at risk since they may be less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature.
Heat can affect older people due to medications they may be taking and how their bodies are able to adapt to and regulate heat. High temperatures can increase potential side effects of medicines and toxicity levels in the body. Physical implications may also bring on heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Staying properly hydrated is very important along with good nutrition and daily gentle exercise and movement.
The American Psychiatric Association lists mental implications of suffering from extreme heat as trouble sleeping, irritability or increased incidents of aggression, suicide, and substance abuse. Other signs to look for when it comes to someone being adversely affected by the heat, shared by the National Institutes of Health, may include: sadness, anxiousness, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness. Older Adults may not be themselves - showing physical symptoms like decreased energy or fatigue or loss of interest in doing everyday things.
Mental health and wellbeing affect all of us so it's important to be understanding, show empathy, watch out for each other, and reach out for help when it is needed. Locally, the Peace River Center offers a broad range of mental health, victim services, and substance use disorder services throughout Polk, Highlands, and Hardee counties for those who may be in need.
