“Hotter Summers, Higher Risks: How Extreme Heat Impacts Mental Health”

Heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, with the past 10 years being the hottest on record. As we prepare for another scorching summer, it is crucial to understand the impact of extreme heat on mental health. Research has shown that during heat waves, hospital admissions for mental health issues spike, highlighting the need for increased preparedness.

The hazards of extreme heat, such as heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, are well known. However, the impact of extreme heat on mental health is often overlooked. Many people experience sleepless nights and irritability during hot summer months, but for those living with mental illnesses, the effects can be more severe.

Studies have shown that extreme heat can exacerbate existing mental illnesses, increasing the likelihood of hospitalization and even death for individuals with conditions such as schizophrenia. The inability to respond to extreme heat, combined with the effects of medication used to treat mental illnesses, can put individuals at a higher risk of heat-related complications.

Lower socioeconomic groups, racialized people, the unhoused, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of extreme heat. The interactions between the environment and health are increasingly recognized as public health concerns, with air and water quality issues, as well as heat-related deaths, making headlines.

To prevent hospitalizations and deaths related to extreme heat and mental illness, access to air conditioning for all Canadians is essential. However, reliance on air conditioning contributes to waste heat and greenhouse gas emissions. Designing cities to be greener can provide a more sustainable solution, with urban green spaces offering mental health benefits such as reduced depression, irritation, and aggression.

As temperatures continue to rise, it is crucial to take steps to ensure that our cities are prepared to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat on mental health. By addressing the mental health implications of climate change, we can create healthier and more resilient communities for all.