The intense heat of summer affects both your mood and your physical health.
Learn about the connection between high temperatures and irritability, as well as practical strategies for maintaining composure.
The scorching heat of summer continues to take its toll on our bodies. While we are often aware of its physical impact, have you ever wondered how it affects your mood? Researchers suggest that some people become more irritable, angrier, and prone to lashing out in the face of high temperatures. If this sounds familiar, remember that you are not alone. Extreme heat tends to make many people irritable. Plus, there are other summer-related factors that can make you feel frustrated. Read on to learn about some of them.
- Lack of sleep:Lack of sleep is a major factor that triggers irritability. During hot summer nights, sleep cycles are often disrupted due to discomfort caused by high temperatures, leading to sleepless nights and drowsy mornings.
- Hormonal changes:Heat can also trigger the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. It may come as a surprise, but when cortisol levels rise, you feel anxious, nervous, and yes, irritable.
- Psychological impact:When the temperature rises, patience usually fades and everything becomes more irritating.
Let's look at some tips on how to stay cool and safe in this extreme weather:
- Keep hydrated:The best thing you can do to stay cool is to drink plenty of water. Avoid tea, coffee, alcohol and other carbonated drinks and drink plenty of fluids even when you are not thirsty.
- Dress appropriately:Avoid wearing tight, dark-colored clothing that makes you feel stuffy and uncomfortable. Instead, choose light, breathable fabrics that help maintain body temperature.
- Smart cooling practices:Avoid chilled water as drinking cold water immediately after being in the heat can create a sudden imbalance in body temperature. Instead, opt for water from a clay pot as it provides adequate coolness and safe hydration.
- Make healthy choices:Physical health is good for mental health. They go hand in hand. So eat balanced meals, exercise regularly and get enough sleep.
- Nutrition and replenishment:Consume coconut water, lemonade, fruit juice, and electrolyte-rich foods to replenish lost nutrients and minerals. Carry oral rehydration solutions (ORS) with you or mix a pinch of pink salt and sugar with half a glass of water to drink when you are dehydrated.
- Stay under shelter:Protect yourself from direct exposure to the sun and use umbrellas, hats or damp cloths to protect yourself from the heat.
