2023-11-19 14:23:27
Climate crisis takes a heavy toll on mental health, especially for those with psychiatric disorders
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (CNN) – As the planet’s temperatures continue to climb, the impact of the climate crisis on mental health comes to the fore. While farmers struggle to keep their crops alive and raging forest fires destroy homes, another group of people continues to face a deadly threat from extreme heat and air pollution: individuals with mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
Research conducted in June 2021 during an unprecedented heatwave in British Columbia revealed that 8% of the individuals who succumbed to extreme heat had been diagnosed with schizophrenia. This discovery made the disorder a greater risk factor for heat-related illnesses and fatalities than other conditions, including kidney disease and coronary artery disease. Moreover, several research studies have found an association between higher temperatures and an increase in suicide attempts, as well as mental health-related emergency department visits.
Dr. Robert Feder, a retired psychiatrist, emphasized that individuals with schizophrenia or other psychiatric conditions are at a heightened risk due to extreme heat, air pollution, and stress. Furthermore, experts stress that the rising temperatures have a direct impact on the body’s ability to regulate temperature, particularly in individuals with these psychiatric conditions. The presence of low levels of brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine further exacerbates the vulnerability of these individuals to extreme heat and air pollution.
To mitigate these risks, it is essential for individuals diagnosed with psychiatric conditions and their surrounding communities to have access to cooling centers, adequate hydration, and increased awareness about the potential impact of the climate crisis on mental health. Experts also advocate for expanding access to mental health resources and providing additional funding for research to better understand the impact of heat on mental health.
It is crucial for individuals to be educated about their susceptibility to heat-related stress and to take necessary precautions such as staying hydrated and avoiding the hottest times of the day. It is also important for them to wear protective clothing and utilize cooling methods such as cold showers to prevent spikes in core body temperature. Moreover, individuals with psychiatric conditions should carefully consider the impact of their medications and discuss the potential risks with their healthcare providers to protect themselves from extreme heat.
The climate crisis has far-reaching implications, including its effects on mental health. For individuals with psychiatric disorders, it is imperative to remain informed, cautious, and well-prepared to combat the challenges posed by extreme heat and air pollution. Addressing the root cause of climate change and promoting research into mental health vulnerability in the face of extreme heat will be crucial elements in protecting the mental health of these vulnerable populations in the years to come.]
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