Extreme heat may raise risk of schizophrenia, depression: Study

IANS April 15, 2025 320 views

A groundbreaking study from the University of Adelaide reveals alarming connections between rising temperatures and mental health risks. Researchers found that extreme heat could increase mental and behavioral disorder burdens by nearly 50% by 2050. Young populations are particularly susceptible, with significant potential impacts on emotional regulation and cognitive function. The study urgently calls for proactive healthcare interventions and community-based strategies to mitigate these emerging mental health challenges.

"The detrimental impacts of climate change on good mental health have been increasingly recognised worldwide" - Prof. Peng Bi
Extreme heat may raise risk of schizophrenia, depression: Study
New Delhi, April 15: Rising temperatures may not only affect physical health, but could also increase the burden of mental and behavioural disorders (MBD) like schizophrenia and depression by almost 50 per cent by 2050, according to a new study.

Key Points

1

Rising temperatures may increase mental disorder burden significantly

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Young people aged 15-44 most vulnerable to mental health impacts

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Climate change threatens mental health beyond population growth projections

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Urgent public health interventions needed to mitigate risks

The research led by the University of Adelaide highlights the urgent need to act now to protect mental health as the climate warms.

Published in the journal Nature Climate Change, the study shows that high temperatures contributed to an annual loss of 8,458 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), representing 1.8 per cent of the total MBD burden in Australia.

Young people aged 15 to 44 are particularly affected, with most losses linked to living with poor mental health.

"The detrimental impacts of climate change on good mental health and emotional states have been increasingly recognised worldwide, and it's only going to get worse unless we act," said lead author Professor Peng Bi, from the University's School of Public Health.

MBDs encompass a broad spectrum of symptoms associated with distress or impairment in important functional areas, including an individual's emotional regulation, cognition, or behaviour, anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, alcohol, drug use, and other mental and substance use disorders.

"From mild distress to serious conditions like schizophrenia, rising temperatures are making things harder for millions," said Professor Bi.

The study found that warmer regions, like those closer to the equator, face higher risks.

"These results underscore the crucial role of policymakers in developing focused public health interventions to minimise the emergence of mental health impacts of climate change, given its significant human, social and financial consequences," said Professor Bi.

"Our findings show that climate change will drive up mental health challenges beyond what population growth alone would cause," added first author Dr. Jingwen Liu.

The researchers call for immediate action, including heat-health action plans to prepare healthcare systems for rising mental health needs, localised solutions, like community programmes and green spaces to build resilience and support for vulnerable groups, ensuring those most at risk get the care they need during hot periods.

Reader Comments

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Sarah K.
This is terrifying but not surprising. I've noticed my anxiety gets way worse during heatwaves. We really need to take climate change seriously! 🌍
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Miguel T.
Interesting study but I wonder if they controlled for other factors like economic stress that often accompanies heat waves? Correlation doesn't always equal causation.
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Jamal R.
As someone who works in mental health, this research is crucial. We're already seeing more crisis calls during extreme weather. Cities need to invest in cooling centers and mental health resources.
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Lisa P.
I've lived in Arizona my whole life and never made this connection before. Explains why summer always feels so much harder emotionally. Stay hydrated and check on your people when it's hot out! 💧
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Trevor W.
The part about young people being most affected is concerning. We need better mental health education in schools to help kids recognize and cope with these climate-related stressors.
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Anika S.
While I appreciate the research, I wish the article gave more concrete tips for individuals to protect their mental health during heat waves. Prevention is just as important as policy changes.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
Climate Change Mental Health Schizophrenia Depression University of Adelaide Mental Disorders Global Health
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