Top Story: How extreme heat impacts our mental health

Minnesotans have experienced some hot weather conditions this summer, and those warm days aren’t over yet. The warmer weather can leave people feeling impacts on their mental health.

Dr. Kristi White, a clinical health psychologist and assistant professor at the University of Minnesota Medical School says the extreme heat can really exacerbate mood, anxiety and psychotic behaviors. “We can also feel more irritable. And from a behavioral perspective, hotter temperatures are also associated with changes in behavior, such as increases in violence, aggression and impulsivity,” she said. Some people may resort to staying inside all day, which can also have its negative impacts. Dr. White notes that connecting with nature has restorative benefits and is good for mental and physical health, as well as cognition and ability to think.

Poor air quality also has an impact on health, especially for those with lung conditions like asthma, cystic fibrosis and COPD. Even those who don’t have these conditions may experience some changes like shortness of breath, which can cause a lot of health anxiety and climate anxiety. To combat the heat and take care of mental health during this time, Dr. White suggests that cooling down, protecting sleep habits, and regulating stress. Putting together a heat safety plan is also a great way to feel more comfortable in this weather and stay safe.

You can listen to Dr. White’s interview with Minnesota Public Radio here.