The UK is experiencing its hottest June on record, with temperatures nearing 40°C. Senior meteorologists warn such extreme weather may become regular. Beyond physical risks, heatwaves take a significant mental toll—a side effect often overlooked.
Emotional Impact of Extreme Heat
Britons have taken to Reddit to express feelings of being 'really scared,' 'extremely anxious,' 'terrified,' and like a 'caged animal.' Some reported panic attacks triggered by the heat. BACP registered counsellor L.J Jones confirms these reactions are common. 'A heatwave can have a significant impact on mental health,' she says. 'Many people report feeling more anxious, irritable, overwhelmed, or emotionally and physically exhausted during periods of intense heat.'
For those with pre-existing anxiety, depression, panic symptoms, health anxiety, or sensory sensitivities, hot weather amplifies difficulties. 'It's also common for people to describe feeling trapped or confined,' Jones adds, especially when they cannot comfortably leave home, exercise, socialise, or engage in wellbeing activities.
Why Heat Affects Psychology
Heat places additional stress on the body, increasing heart rate, disrupting sleep, and causing dehydration—activating sensations associated with anxiety. Poor sleep and prolonged physical discomfort reduce emotional resilience. The weather can also create a sense of losing control, as people worry about health, vulnerable relatives, pets, climate change, or worsening heat. The UK's lack of air conditioning and pool access exacerbates the problem.
'When people feel they have no effective way to escape the heat, it's understandable that they may begin to feel trapped in their own homes,' Jones explains. 'That sense of being unable to get comfortable, cool down or carry on with normal routines can have a significant impact on mood and emotional well-being.'
Heatwave Warning for Antidepressant Users
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline and fluoxetine, SNRIs like venlafaxine and duloxetine, and tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline can cause heat intolerance. Dr Asim Cheema, an internal medicine and cardiology specialist at Your Doctors Online, warns: 'Taking antidepressants doesn't mean you can't enjoy summer, but it does mean you need to be extra cautious during extreme heat.' These medications affect the hypothalamus (which controls temperature regulation) or reduce sweating, making it harder for the body to cool down. This increases the risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke. Antipsychotics, beta blockers, diuretics, and some antihistamines also affect heat tolerance.
How to Manage Anxiety During a Heatwave
Jones advises focusing on what is within your control. Practical steps include staying hydrated, keeping living spaces cool, maintaining regular meals, and prioritising sleep—these can make a 'noticeable difference' to emotional wellbeing. Adapt activities: exercise early in the morning, connect with friends indoors, or spend time in air-conditioned public spaces. 'It is also worth noting that this time will pass and will even become better-equipped for the future,' she says.
Limit excessive doom-scrolling or repeated weather updates. Seek information from reliable sources at planned intervals. 'Remember that irritability and stress during extreme weather are normal human responses,' Jones adds. 'If anxiety becomes persistent, overwhelming, or begins to interfere significantly with daily life, professional support should be sought.'
