Hot weather is often known as a cause of increased risk of dehydration, exhaustion or heatstroke. However, prolonged high temperatures not only affect physical health but can also affect mood, sleep and mental health.
When the weather is too hot, the body must increase activity to regulate body temperature. This process can make people feel tired, reduce concentration and reduce work or study efficiency.
Not only causing a feeling of fatigue, heat can also change mood. A study published in 2023 in the journal Health Science Reports showed that high temperatures are related to changes in neurotransmitters involved in regulating emotions. Therefore, many people are irritable, impatient or more sensitive during prolonged heat waves.
The ability to concentrate and control emotions can also decline during prolonged heat waves. Many people are prone to feeling stressed, irritable, or having difficulty maintaining concentration at work and daily activities.
In addition, high temperatures also affect sleep quality. Hot weather at night can make it difficult for the body to fall asleep or wake up easily, leading to drowsiness and lack of sleep.
Prolonged lack of sleep can make moods more negative, while increasing feelings of stress and anxiety. For people with mental health problems, prolonged heat can make symptoms worse.
Children, the elderly and people with chronic diseases are considered groups easily affected by heat. Postpartum or menopausal women may also be more sensitive to the effects of high temperatures due to hormonal changes.
In addition, high temperatures increase the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. This condition can cause fatigue, dizziness, reduced concentration, and even confusion in serious cases.
During prolonged hot weather, people should pay attention to signs such as irritability, difficulty concentrating, insomnia or abnormal mood swings. Drinking enough water, limiting outdoors during hot sunny hours, taking reasonable rest and maintaining adequate sleep can help reduce the impact of high temperatures on health.
