Over the next few weeks, I would like to talk about the effects of the weather on mental health. Many people believe that cold and rainy days are depressing, but other people may love them, especially when there has been a lack of rain for long periods of time. But what about the summer.
Extreme heat can be bad for our physical and mental health. While people living in colder climates may want to get outdoors and get the most of the sunshine while it lasts in the summer, people living in hotter climates may want to stay indoors and stay cool. Just like habits formed in winter, staying indoors and being inactive can cause anxiety, depression and also an increase in aggressive behaviour towards loved ones due to the irritable effects of the hot weather.
Many people also lack sleep during the hotter months, even though they may be less active compared to the cooler months; therefore, it is important to keep up a routine of exercise wherever possible. In my personal experience, living in a tropical climate where most of the year is like summer, getting up early and going for a walk, or taking an evening run helps a lot to cope with the heat blues.
During the really hot days of summer, it is important to connect with friends, family and especially the elder members of the family as they can be particularly vulnerable. If you need someone to talk to you are welcome to contact me. The first session is free. Stay tuned for more talk on weather and mental health in the up-and-coming weeks.
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Heat and agressive behaviour
https://www2.psych.ubc.ca/~schaller/308Readings/Anderson2001.pdf
