Mental Health In A Heatwave: The Hidden Impact of Rising Temperatures
Last Updated:
Extreme summer heat doesn't just tax the body — it deeply affects our sleep, mood, and mental resilience.
The most crucial thing to know about our bodies is that good health and holistic wellness are not characterized by the absence of sickness but by a harmonious balance among body, mind, and environment. With climate change causing spikes in global temperatures, the summer heat has become an emergent public health concern. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare, shares all you need to know:
Biologically, our bodies are finely tuned to nature's rhythms, adapting not only to daily and seasonal shifts in light, temperature, and food availability but also in subtle ways that affect our emotional and cognitive states. Just as we adjust our clothing or diet to match the weather, our mental and emotional needs also fluctuate with the seasons. According to research published in ScienceDirect, there is a 2.2% increase in mental health-related mortality and a 0.9% rise in illnesses linked to mental health for every degree Celsius that the temperature increases. Changes in daylight and temperature can influence mood, energy levels, and cognitive functions — highlighting the importance of aligning our emotional and intellectual habits with these natural cycles.
Harsh weather seasons, especially the extreme heat of summer, place particular demands on both our physiological and psychological functioning. The climatic extremes of soaring temperatures, extended days, and increased environmental stress tend to disrupt this delicate balance, often leading to emotional disturbances, mental exhaustion, and sometimes, severe mood disorders.
Recognizing and understanding these seasonal energies is crucial for preserving emotional resilience and mental clarity. Tapping into our body's natural responses and working in conjunction with them through holistic methods — such as lifestyle adjustments, mind-body techniques, and gentle treatment approaches — can help us navigate even the most difficult seasons with inner strength and reduced mental and emotional stress.
Nighttime temperatures above 25°C significantly reduce slow-wave and REM sleep cycles, which are vital for emotional processing and memory consolidation. Sleep fragmentation during summer months creates a neurobiological vulnerability to mood disorders. Epidemiologic data show a 28% increase in depression diagnoses following heatwaves lasting more than five days, with insomnia severity mediating this relationship.
2. Summer-Onset Depression
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is commonly associated with cold winters, though a lesser-known variant occurs in summer. Summer SAD presents with agitation, insomnia, and appetite suppression — unlike winter SAD, which involves hypersomnia and carbohydrate cravings. Neurobiological models suggest that extended photoperiods disrupt melatonin synthesis, while excessive light exposure downregulates serotonin receptors in the dorsal raphe nucleus. Clinicians report a 140% increase in summer-SAD cases since 2010, especially in regions experiencing more than 20 days annually above 35°C.
3. Cognitive Fatigue
Long-term exposure to heat reduces cognitive processing speed. It impairs memory, concentration, and decision-making. Combined with environmental hazards such as pollution — a major issue in densely populated countries like India — the overall cognitive load may rise, making it harder to stay focused and emotionally resilient.
4. Increased Anxiety
The physical response to excessive heat, such as a heightened heart rate and shortness of breath, can mimic symptoms of anxiety. For those already susceptible to panic attacks or chronic stress, this physiological crossover can trigger more frequent episodes of anxiety during summer.
Mental Health Is Not Separate from Holistic Wellness
Before considering specific interventions, it's important to acknowledge that mental health cannot be separated from overall wellness. True well-being stems from a dynamic balance between physical, emotional, mental, and environmental factors. During summer, when external stressors are high, this balance can easily be disrupted. Prioritizing a holistic lifestyle — with mindful hydration, nourishing foods, physical movement, emotional self-care, restorative sleep, and meaningful social connections — lays the foundation for stronger mental resilience. Supporting the body and mind as a connected system helps individuals adapt to seasonal extremes and maintain emotional stability.
Homeopathy's Role in Supporting Mental Health During Summer
While holistic wellness practices provide a foundation for emotional resilience, supplementary support from therapeutic systems like homeopathy can further strengthen the mind-body balance. Homeopathy approaches health by treating the individual as a whole — considering physical symptoms alongside emotional and mental states. Seasonal aggravations, like those triggered by extreme heat, are key indicators in remedy selection.
Homeopathy offers a gentle way to aid the body's natural functions without harsh chemicals, making it particularly useful when the body is under prolonged external stress.
Glonoinum is used when heat exposure leads to pulsating headaches, confusion, and irritability.
Natrum Muraticum suits individuals who become emotionally sensitive, withdrawn, or dehydrated in summer.
Gelsemium is ideal for those who feel mentally dull, fatigued, or overwhelmed.
Aurum Metallicum helps stabilize deeper emotional upsets such as intense sadness or hopelessness.
Ignatia Amara addresses emotional shocks, bereavement, and mood swings aggravated by environmental stressors.
Kali Phos 6X is a natural de-stressor for mental and emotional exhaustion during long, sweltering days.
These individualized remedies offer a subtle, non-intrusive means of helping individuals maintain equilibrium amid summer's challenges.
Holistic Approaches for Stress Management in Summer
Combining conscious lifestyle practices with homeopathy can significantly enhance mental wellness during summer. Staying hydrated with water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelons, and oranges helps stabilize energy and supports brain function. Environmental adjustments, such as limiting outdoor activities to cooler times of the day and using sun protection, reduce physical and mental stress.
Prioritizing sleep with cooling solutions and soothing bedtime routines ensures more restful nights. Stress-management techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing cultivate emotional resilience. Coping with urban stress — especially during summer commutes — is made easier with calming music, relaxation exercises, and proper hydration. Seeking professional support provides personalized care to maintain mental balance throughout the season.
Parting Thoughts
top videos
View all
India's intense summer heat and extended daylight hours demand more than just physical endurance — they call for mindful mental care. The combination of heat, sleep disruption, environmental stress, and social pressure can significantly affect cognitive and emotional well-being.
Adopting a holistic lifestyle that acknowledges the interconnectedness of body, mind, and environment allows us not only to survive but also to flourish during the harshest months. By tuning into the body's signals, making thoughtful adjustments, and incorporating supportive therapies, we can navigate the summer season with increased vitality, emotional stability, and inner calm.
The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated!
tags :
beat the heat Better Mental Health delhi heatwave heatwave heatwave alert Heatwave delhi mental health conditions
Location :
New Delhi, India, India
First Published:
May 01, 2025, 21:51 IST
News lifestyle » health-and-fitness Mental Health In A Heatwave: The Hidden Impact of Rising Temperatures
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Indian Express
How extreme heat is affecting India
Around 76% of India's population is currently at high to very high risk from extreme heat, according to a new study. People living in Delhi, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh face the highest risk from heat in the country, the analysis suggests. The study, 'How Extreme Heat is Impacting India: Assessing District-level Heat Risk', was published on May 20. It was carried out by Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) researchers: Shravan Prabhu, Keerthana Anthikat Suresh, Srishti Mandal, Divyanshu Sharma, and Vishwas Chitale. For their analysis, the researchers developed a heat risk index (HRI), which assessed heat risk across 734 districts in India. The index is based on 35 indicators, including an increase in frequency of very hot days, population density, percentage of persons with disability, and change in land use and land cover. Understanding heat risk Contrary to common perception, heat risk is quite different from heat waves and heat stress. While heatwaves — they do not have any universal definition — usually refer to prolonged periods of abnormally high temperatures in a specific region, heat stress is when the body temperature exceeds 37 degrees Celsius in humans and animals. At this temperature, the body is not able to effectively remove excess heat, which can lead to discomfort, heat cramps, and exhaustion. If the body temperature crosses 40 degrees Celsius, a heat stroke can occur. Heat risk, on the other hand, is essentially the probability of experiencing heat-related illnesses or death due to exposure to extreme temperatures. It depends on three crucial factors: 'the intensity of the heat (and its compounding effects such as humidity); the degree of exposure; and the underlying vulnerabilities of affected communities,' according to the CEEW study. Factors driving heat risk RISE IN NUMBER OF VERY WARM NIGHTS: In the years between 2012 and 2022, the number of very warm nights has increased faster than very warm days, the study found. More than 70% of districts witnessed five or more additional very warm nights per summer (March to June) during this period. 'These nights and days are defined as periods when minimum and maximum temperatures rise above… what was normal for 95% of the time in the past,' it said. This is concerning because higher temperatures during the night make it difficult for the body to cool down after intense daytime heat, which can lead to a rise in health risks such as heat strokes and worsening of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension. INCREASE IN RELATIVE HUMIDITY IN NORTH INDIA: The study found out that between 2012 and 2022 the relative humidity — the amount of water that is present in the air compared to the greatest amount it would be possible for the air to hold at that temperature — has significantly increased in North India, particularly in Indo-Gangetic Plain. While North India used to have around 30–40% relative humidity during the baseline period between 1982 and 2011, it increased to 40-50% between 2012 and 2022. Higher relative humidity is an issue as it exacerbates heat stress on the human body, especially during the peak summer months. This happens because high relative humidity makes it harder for the body to cool down through sweat after the body temperature crosses 37 degrees Celsius. 'This can increase the occurrence of several heat-related illnesses at a faster rate,' the CEEW study said. HIGH POPULATION DENSITY & INCREASE IN URBANISATION: Apart from very warm nights, very warm days, and relative humidity, several other factors also influence heat risk. For instance, the study found that districts with high population density such as Mumbai and Delhi face the highest exposure to extreme heat. Districts, especially tier II and III cities such as Pune, Thoothukudi and Gurugram, which have seen rapid urbanisation in recent years have witnessed hotter nights. That is because of the emergence of concrete infrastructure which absorbs a lot of heat during the day and releases it during the night. Districts in states such as Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh are highly vulnerable to extreme heat. This is due to the combined impact of high temperatures and socio-economic and health vulnerabilities such as more elderly people and a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases like diabetes, according to the study. The significance The year 2024 was the warmest year on record for the world, including India. While the global average annual mean temperature during the year was more than 1.5 degrees Celsius higher than pre-industrial levels (1850-1900 period), the temperature over India in 2024 was about 1.2 degrees Celsius higher than the 1901-1910 average. Although the temperature rise in India is lower than the increase over the world, the country is already witnessing adverse effects of global warming. For instance, in 2024, India saw its longest recorded heatwave since 2010. There were more than 44,000 cases of heatstroke in the country last year. The situation has been worsened as India's heat action plans (HAPs) — early warning systems and preparedness plans for extreme heat events — remain lacking in some ways. For instance, most of the HAPs put forth by multiple Indian cities lack long-term strategies to tackle the growing threat of extreme heat in the country, according to a study, published in March this year, by the Sustainable Futures Collaborative (SFC), a New Delhi-based research organisation. The analysis also said that the cities having such strategies did not implement them effectively. Such gaps in planning could result in a higher number of heat-related deaths due to more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves in the following years, according to the study.
Hindustan Times
2 days ago
- Hindustan Times
Maha sees sharp drop in heatstroke cases this year
Maharashtra has recorded a significant drop in heatstroke cases this year, with only 124 cases reported thus far as compared to 347 cases during the corresponding period last year. Furthermore, not a single heatstroke-related fatality has been reported this year although three suspected deaths linked to heat-related illnesses were reported, officials said. This, despite 2025 being one of the hottest years with several parts of the state reporting temperatures as high as 40 degrees Celsius which placed immense stress on healthcare systems and communities. In 2024, three suspected heatstroke deaths and one confirmed heatstroke death were reported in Bhandara district. Whereas in 2023, a record 3,191 heatstroke cases including 16 suspected heatstroke deaths and 14 confirmed heatstroke deaths were reported across the state. State health officials said that the decline in numbers this year is due to increased public awareness, timely health advisories, and better preparedness to combat extreme heat conditions. Dr Kailas Baviskar, deputy director of health services, said, 'Regular updates through media, early warning systems, and distribution of guidelines to district administrations helped reduce the impact of the heatwave this year.' Dr Baviskar further said that in addition to public awareness campaigns, the government had set up cold rooms in hospitals; ensured availability of drinking water at key locations; and instructed field-level health workers to monitor vulnerable populations, especially the elderly and outdoor workers. 'Citizens have also become more cautious, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours and staying hydrated,' he said. Meanwhile, Maharashtra has recorded the maximum number of heatstroke cases this year including 20 in Yavatmal district, followed by 16 in Buldhana, 10 in Kolhapur, and nine in Palghar. Pune district reported only one case of heatstroke. Whereas all three suspected heatstroke deaths were reported in Nagpur district, officials said. Heatstroke is a serious heat-related emergency that occurs when the body is unable to control its internal temperature due to exposure to heat. A patient is diagnosed to have suffered a heatstroke if he/she has an elevated body temperature equal to more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, and has an altered mental status including disorientation, delirium and seizure. While the number of heatstroke cases has fallen this year, health experts have warned about climate change continuing to pose long-term challenges, stressing on the need for continued vigilance and proactive planning in the coming years.
News18
3 days ago
- News18
Expert Shares How To Guard Against Fungal Infections And Flare-Ups This Monsoon
Last Updated: Monsoon brings relief from heat. But it also brings humidity and dampness which create ideal conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive, making skin prone to infections. Indian monsoons bring welcome relief from the relentless summer heat, especially as climate change makes weather patterns increasingly unpredictable. Yet, along with the cooling rains comes heightened humidity and dampness that make for the perfect conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive. This surge in moisture poses a particular risk to the skin, making it vulnerable to infections and flare-ups such as ringworm, tinea capitis, athlete's foot, acne, eczema, and scabies. While this may sound alarming, knowing how these conditions develop and adopting simple preventive steps can keep your skin healthy and protected throughout the season. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra's Healthcare, shares expert advice on how to prevent the common skin infections that often arise during the monsoon season. Ringworm is one of the most common fungal infections that appear during the monsoons. It is a circular, itchy, and scaly rash that typically appears as red, scaly edges and a clearer centre. It is a type of fungal infection which is rampant during the monsoon, owing to the excess humidity and moisture in the environment during this period, which is a fertile ground for fungi. Preventive Measures and Natural Remedies This is one of the most contagious fungal infections, typically affecting the scalp and hair shafts, primarily caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. This fungus on the scalp may be scaly or itchy and is mostly seen among children, particularly during monsoon, when damp conditions facilitate fungal spread. Preventive Measures Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) This fungal infection occurs due to sweaty conditions and can spread through direct contact with infected skin or surfaces like showers, swimming pool decks, and gym floors. Sharing towels, footwear, and socks can also spread the infection. The infection appears between the toes, resulting in skin peeling, redness, and itchiness. Preventive Measures Eczema Flare-Ups Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin infection. During the monsoon, the moisture in the air can lead to increased sweat, which can further irritate the skin and trigger Eczema flare-ups. Hydrate skin regularly with fragrance-free moisturisers. Use gentle bathing practices: Avoid hot water and harsh soaps, and pat dry instead of rubbing. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce irritation. Scabies Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the skin and leads to intense itching and a pimple-like rash. This condition spreads easily in humid environments, prolonging mite survival. Avoid prolonged skin contact with infected individuals. Wash clothes and bedding frequently in hot water. Treat household contacts simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Excess moisture and humidity are the prime reasons for the increased risk of skin infections during the monsoons. However, preventing them is very easy with proper precautionary measures like maintaining personal hygiene, dressing in breathable clothes, applying natural antifungal treatments, and staying away from shared personal belongings. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Fungal infections health and fitness lifestyle monsoon scabies skincare Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: June 06, 2025, 17:02 IST
