Heatwaves and mental health: how to stay well and get support
Hot weather can affect more than our physical health. For some people, especially those living with a mental health condition, periods of extreme heat can also affect mood, sleep, anxiety levels and overall wellbeing.
As temperatures rise, local NHS services often see more people seeking urgent mental health support. That is why we are encouraging people to look after themselves, check in on others, and ask for help early if they are struggling.
Ashton Ntuli, Chief Operating Officer at South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust, said:
“For the past few years, we've seen demand for mental health services increase during the summer months. Periods of extreme heat can have a significant impact on people's mental wellbeing, particularly for those already living with a mental health condition. We see higher levels of anxiety, distress, disrupted sleep and worsening symptoms, which can lead to more people attending A&E in mental health crisis.
“One of our biggest concerns is that people are not getting support early enough. In recent weeks, around 70% of people attending our local A&Es for urgent mental health support had not previously accessed our NHS mental health services.
“You don't have to reach crisis point before asking for help. Support is available, and getting help early can often prevent problems from becoming more serious. If you or someone you know needs urgent mental health support, contact NHS 111, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and select option 2 to speak to a mental health professional.”
How heat can affect mental health
Very hot weather can make it harder to feel well, both physically and emotionally. It can lead to:
- disrupted sleep
- increased anxiety, agitation or distress
- low mood or irritability
- dehydration, which can affect concentration and mood
- worsening symptoms for people with existing mental health conditions
- increased risk for people taking some medications, including lithium or antipsychotic medication.
Medication and hot weather
Some medications can make it harder for your body to cope with hot weather. For example, lithium can become unsafe if you become dehydrated, and some antipsychotic medicines can affect your body's ability to stay cool. If you take these medications, make sure you drink enough fluids and seek advice from your mental health team if you have any concerns. Do not stop taking prescribed medication without speaking to a healthcare professional.
If you are worried about your medication during hot weather, speak to your GP, pharmacist or mental health team for advice. You can also contact our Medicines Helpline on 020 3513 6829, Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, or send a message using the Patient and Carers Medicines Information Form.
Simple steps to protect your mental wellbeing in hot weather
During periods of high heat, try to:
- drink plenty of water
- avoid too much alcohol, as it can increase dehydration
- keep your home as cool as possible by closing curtains during the hottest part of the day
- spend time in cooler spaces if you can
- avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours
- take cool showers or use a damp cloth to cool down
- try to keep a regular sleep routine
- speak to someone you trust if you are feeling more anxious, distressed or overwhelmed
- follow any advice from your mental health team about medication, especially if you take lithium or other medication that may be affected by dehydration
When to get help
Please do not wait until things feel unmanageable before asking for support.
If you are struggling with your mental health, feeling overwhelmed, or are worried about someone else, help is available.
For urgent mental health support, contact NHS 111, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and select option 2 to speak to a trained mental health professional.
Find more ways to get help with your mental health on our urgent help page.
