The effects of the heat wave on mental health

High temperatures arrive and with them the danger that comes with the arrival of a heat wave.

With the thermometers at the top and according to certain environmental circumstances we are exposed to heat stroke. It is a terminology with which it is called the organic difficulty to maintain the water balance and the regulation of the temperature. This risk could be classified as a heat attack in the case of people with mental illness or people with depressive disorders.

Extreme heat is perceived by the body as a threat and increases stress levels, a circumstance that in these individuals can suppose critical and risk situations.

Symptoms of a heat stroke

The suffocating thermal sensation, which also comes breaking in without a transition period prevents us from sleeping the necessary hours, a very aggravating circumstance in the case of people with mental health problems. The irritability suffered during the day continues during the night and the lack of rest leads to a vicious cycle that must be stopped.

The people most likely to have problematic episodes in the hottest periods are those with manic or euphoric symptoms, as well as those with addictions or a serious mental disorder.

Tips to relieve the heat

For those who live with these people, from Origin Clinics We have put together a series of tips that can be helpful in improving your well-being.

• In the event that severe symptoms are present and significant behavioral alterations are perceived, it is advisable to go to the psychiatrist in case he considers pharmacological readjustment.
• Plan pleasant activities at home or in places that are pleasant for the person.
• Address important issues at the beginning or end of the day, avoiding the hours of maximum heat.
• Avoid exits in hot times. Rest in the hours of intense heat.
• Hydrate yourself well and take frequent showers to keep your body cool.
• Keep the home heated in any way possible.

On the other hand, the insomnia and certain self-esteem problems are associated with seasonal dynamics. For example, there are those who see their degree of discomfort increase due to having to constantly expose his body, with which he is not satisfied.

Other people do not have the resources to go on vacation. The absence of a social network, of friends, with whom to enjoy these vacation days also influences. In all these cases, It is also recommended the null exposure in the maximum hours of heat and the search for family and social support.