DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — The Alabama Department of Mental Health is reminding residents that extreme heat can impact mental health as well as physical health during the summer months.
According to the department, high temperatures can interfere with the brain’s ability to regulate body temperature and maintain a healthy neurochemical balance. Heat can worsen existing mental health conditions, including anxiety and schizophrenia, while also affecting overall emotional well-being.
The department says heat-related mental health symptoms may include behavioral changes, difficulty concentrating or remembering, trouble sleeping, increased stress, irritability, anxiety, depression, headaches, dizziness and nausea. In some cases, physical symptoms such as a racing heart may be mistaken for a panic attack.
To help reduce the effects of extreme heat, the Alabama Department of Mental Health encourages residents to stay hydrated, support their physical health, manage stress, stay connected with family and friends, and spend time in cool environments.
Officials remind residents that mental health is just as important as physical health, especially during periods of extreme heat, and encourage anyone experiencing serious mental health symptoms to seek help from a healthcare provider or mental health professional.
