Summers in the UK are getting hotter, with heatwaves occurring more often and lasting longer. This can have negative impacts not only on our physical health but also on our mental health. Hot weather can lead to stress, anxiety, low mood, and sleep problems, especially in people already experiencing mental health difficulties. To help maintain their wellbeing during the heat, researchers at King’s College London have worked with members of the public and healthcare professionals.
Together, we have co-created a set of practical tips you could try this summer to keep cool:
Check in with your healthcare professional. If you are struggling with your mental health during extreme heat, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Organise your day around the heat. If possible, reschedule or cancel activities that require you to go outside during the hottest times of the day.
Only go where it’s cool. If possible, plan your day around access to cool spaces - for example, a visit to an air-conditioned library or a park shaded by trees.
Look for light and loose clothing. Wear loose clothing in light colours when it is very hot. Natural fabrics like cotton or linen are especially good in heat.
Make a cool-down kit. Try to have cooling products ready before you need them, such as ice cubes and ice packs.
It helps to talk to someone. Tell people around you if you are struggling with your mental wellbeing during extreme heat. You are not alone – everyone is going through this right now. Make sure you don’t isolate yourself.
Need quick relief? Try spraying yourself with water or taking a cold shower. You can also put ice cubes in front of a fan to help cool down a room.
Drink lots of water. Always carry water with you when you have to go outside.
Slow down and remind yourself it’s temporary. Try to do less on an extremely hot day. Take regular breaks if you can and avoid physically straining activities.
Could time in nature help?
As part of our research into the mental health impacts of hot weather, we are also exploring whether spending time in nature might help us cope. Green spaces not only cool down the environment but may also reduce stress and boost your mood. To investigate this, we have launched a citizen scientist study called NatureBoost.
Join NatureBoost to discover how nature affects your mental wellbeing and contribute to groundbreaking research.
For more information or to take part, please visit www.natureboostproject.com