Stress and the Arizona Heat

Summer is here, and so is the relentless heat, especially here in Arizona! With the heat comes not only a change in the environment, but it comes with mental shifts that might not be so welcomed. That’s why it’s the perfect time cool off and keep your mind sharp with our summer mental wellness tips.

Why Does the Heat Mess with Your Mind?

It’s not just your imagination. Prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can zap our energy, crank up stress levels, and leave us feeling irritable.

Statistics concerning heat and mental health:

ER Visits: A 2022 study of mental health-related emergency department visits found “an 8% increase in mental health visits on the hottest days of summer compared with the coolest days. The increase ranged from 5% to 11% across different disorders,” according to the APA.

Link to Suicidal Thoughts: Studies show a concerning link between extreme heat and increased rates of attempted and completed suicides.

Rise in Hospital Admissions: Research from EHP Publishing in Australia linked heatwaves to a 7.3% rise in hospital admissions for mental health disorders.

Increased Aggression: Heat exposure has been linked to higher levels of irritability and aggression, impacting relationships and behavior according to studies performed by the Mayo Clinic.

In other words, several studies show the relationship between heat and mental wellness. This is why it’s extremely important to reduce exposure and keep regular check-ins, ensure open communication about your heat concerns, and adjust workloads accordingly.

Ways to Prioritize Mental Wellbeing

Block the Burnout: Equip yourself and with mental resilience tools like mindfulness exercises, if you need to be outside take breaks in shaded areas.

Hydrate: Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet is like giving your brain internal air conditioning. Keep those mental circuits cool and energized with a focus on healthy snacks, water, and brain-boosting foods.

Work Smarter, Not Harder: Extreme heat shouldn’t mean a productivity meltdown. Consider flexible work schedules, remote work options, or even early morning shifts like your neighbor who faithfully walks their dog at sunrise.

Don’t Get Stuck Inside: Despite it being cooler indoors, being cooped up isn’t healthy. Ensure you have good indoor air circulation, create a comfortable workspace, and schedule strategic outdoor breaks for cooler times.

Safety First: Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are no joke. Educate yourself on the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion for yourself and loved ones.

Sometimes the heat can get the best of us. If you’re struggling with your mental health due to the Arizona temperatures, here are some additional tips to consider:

Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to not be okay. Heat-related stress and anxiety are valid experiences. If you’re really “feeling the heat,” say something about it or reach out for support immediately.

Self-Care Strategies: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. Any of these can help with stress, anxiety, and anger management during the heat.

Connect with Support:Don’t isolate yourself. Talk to your team lead, a trusted friend, family member, therapist, or counselor if you’re not feeling any relief.

(Source: Ellie Mental Health, https://elliementalhealth.com/)