Focusing on the immediate bodily harm caused by natural disasters and climate change is convenient, but the impact of these crises extends far beyond what the eye can see. Environmental issues can profoundly affect mental health, causing stress, anxiety, and depression. The uncertainty of living in an unstable environment can also lead to chronic stress, which can have long-term mental health consequences.
Moreover, the displacement and loss resulting from environmental crises can lead to trauma, grief, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People who have lost their homes or loved ones may experience a range of emotions, from sadness to anger, and might struggle to come to terms with their loss. And while financial hardships often accompany these crises, they can exacerbate mental health issues, especially for those who already struggle with poverty, homelessness, or social isolation.
The seriousness of these issues calls for immediate action to meet the mental health requirements of those impacted by environmental catastrophes. This includes providing access to mental health services, such as counseling and therapy, and community-based support networks. But it is not enough to address the symptoms. We need to also address the root causes of environmental crises, such as climate change, by reducing carbon emissions, investing in renewable energy, and implementing sustainable practices.
How do heat waves affect mental health?
Heat waves can significantly affect mental health by increasing stress, anxiety, and depression. The following are some ways that heat waves might damage your mental health:
Sleep disruptions: High temperatures can make falling and staying asleep difficult, resulting in weariness and irritability during the day. This makes it more difficult for you to focus and complete day-to-day tasks, impairing your mood.
Physical discomfort: Heat waves can cause physical pain, such as headaches, dehydration, and exhaustion, leading to increased stress and anxiety.
Isolation: During heat waves, people may remain indoors to avoid the heat, leading to social isolation and loneliness. This can contribute to depression and anxiety.
Financial strain: Increased use of air conditioning and other cooling measures during heat waves can lead to higher energy bills, which can cause financial stress and contribute to stress and anxiety.
Increased risk of violence: Research has shown that warm temperatures can increase the risk of violence and aggression, leading to fear and anxiety in affected communities.
How to take care of your mental health in the summer?
Summer can be a great time for mental health, but it can also be challenging, especially for those struggling with mental health issues. Here are some tips to help you take care of your mental health during the summer months:
Taking care of your child's climate anxiety: Children face climate anxiety, and parents struggle to address this issue. Being honest with youth is critical as they can quickly discover the truth, leading to a loss of trust. However, parents need to consider the emotional needs of their young people and avoid alarming them with statements like, "The world is going to end." We need to teach youth how to cope with the thoughts surrounding climate change and provide them support as a society.
Go outside: Being exposed to natural sunlight can increase your body's vitamin D and serotonin levels, which have been shown to enhance your mood. Simply taking a moment to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the natural environment can calm your mind and body. Engaging in a new outdoor activity such as gardening, hiking, or paddle boarding for at least 30 minutes in the sunshine is crucial for your self-care routine. Spending time outside is an important aspect of a healthy lifestyle.
Take time to unwind: Most of us use our paid holiday time to catch up on family tasks we do not have time for during the workweek, such as cleaning the closet, organizing the garage, and scheduling overdue appointments. However, it is better to use this time to relax and enjoy yourself instead. You can read a book at home or plan a trip to a new destination. Spending your holiday time unwinding and taking a break from your daily chores is essential.
Re-focus your energy by planning a getaway: Taking a break from your usual environment and experiencing a change in surroundings might help you relax and redirect your energies to the present moment. Breaking away from your daily routine, whether for a short overnight trip or an extended overseas vacation, can help renew your thoughts and uplift your mood. This can be particularly beneficial when you return to your everyday life and responsibilities.
Get ample sleep: Lack of sleep can harm your mental health, so aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. You can use apps like Sleep Cycle to track your sleep and find the best time to wake up.
Stay physically active: Physical activities like going to the gym, taking a yoga class, or taking walks outside can have mood-boosting effects. However, being inactive during summer and spending too much time on the couch can harm physical and mental health. A daily 20-30-minute cardiovascular exercise session can significantly benefit our overall well-being, whether at the gym or outdoors. You may be surprised at how much better you feel by incorporating physical activity into your daily routine.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression, so make sure to drink plenty of water during the day.
Be aware of your exposure to the sun: While some sun exposure can be beneficial, too much can lead to sunburns, dehydration, and other health problems.
Practice self-care: Take time to do things that make you feel good, such as reading, walking, or practicing yoga.
Stay connected: Stay in touch with friends and family, and consider joining a support group or seeking therapy if you are struggling. Reach out with mental health apps like SOLH App.
Financial stress: Increased use of air conditioning and other cooling measures during heat waves can lead to higher energy bills, which can cause financial stress and contribute to stress and anxiety.
By taking these steps, we can help mitigate the mental health impact of environmental crises and build more resilient communities. It's time to prioritize the mental health of those affected by environmental issues and take action to prevent further damage. We can create a safer, healthier, and more sustainable world. And if you are someone who is looking for both medical and holistic methods of mental recovery and needs an easy and accessible solution, then get connected with Solh Wellness. At Solh Wellness, we provide therapy programs with easy access to experts with years of experience in the field. Download the Solh App and take a step toward better mental health and life.
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