High temperatures can affect people’s mental health in various ways, such as lowering energy levels, increasing irritability, disrupting sleep and creating isolation at home, according to a Psychology Today blog post.
A Health Science Reports paper published in 2023 included studies regarding environmental science, psychology, public health and climate. The results showed that as temperatures rise to uncomfortable levels, meaningful effects are possible, such as increased anxiety. Hot temperatures activate the body’s stress response, releasing increased amounts of cortisol and epinephrine, which can make existing anxiety worse and create anxiety in those who were previously calm. Emotional sensitivity also increases, causing people to feel more easily upset, more prone to conflict and frustration and more impatient.
Additionally, dehydration from the heat can cause cognitive changes, such as increased brain fog or confusion. Dehydration can even begin to mimic the symptoms of panic with increased heart rate, shallow breathing and lightheadedness. Prolonged high temperatures can alter daily mood cycles by disrupting sleep and increasing hormonal fluctuations. Over time, people tend to show a decreased ability to cope with stress, which can affect interpersonal relationships and work performance and make them less adaptable. A lack of motivation and energy caused by physical discomfort can be associated with an increased sense of helplessness and hopelessness.
People who live in crowded conditions without adequate indoor temperature control; outdoor workers whose jobs do not allow them the flexibility of indoor time; and people who do not have the resources to adequately cool their living spaces are more prone to the physical dangers and psychological effects of excessive heat.
It is important to recognize the role extreme heat can play in mental well-being and be proactive in trying to combat the challenges.
Be sure to check out heat safety resources on NRCA’s Heat Illness Prevention webpage, as well as NRCA’s recently released Heat Stress for Roofers Training Course.
Additionally, the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention offers resources regarding suicide prevention and mental well-being, including information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the Crisis Text Line.
