Table 1.

Psychological response to heat.

Psychological response	Explanation
Increased anxiety	High temperatures can induce feelings of anxiety and unease. The body's stress response is activated, leading to heightened levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline. These physiological changes can contribute to a sense of restlessness and apprehension, intensifying anxiety symptoms. 52
Irritability and agitation	Heat stress triggers the release of stress hormones, potentially leading to increased irritability and agitation. The physiological stress response to high temperatures includes the release of stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can evoke emotional responses, leading to feelings of irritability, restlessness, and heightened emotional sensitivity. 53 Individuals may find themselves more prone to frustration, impatience, and interpersonal conflicts during heat exposure, underscoring the intricate link between physiological and emotional well‐being. 54
Mood disturbances	Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can disrupt mood stability. Heat‐induced physiological changes, such as hormonal fluctuations and disturbed sleep patterns, can contribute to shifts in mood. Individuals may experience heightened mood swings, feelings of sadness, or an overall sense of emotional instability. 55
Reduced patience and tolerance	Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can decrease patience and tolerance levels. The discomfort and stress associated with heat stress can lower the threshold for irritation, leading to reduced patience in interpersonal interactions and heightened emotional sensitivity. 56
Decreased coping abilities	High temperatures can diminish an individual's ability to cope with stress. The physiological strain of heat stress can weaken psychological resilience, making it harder to manage daily stressors and challenges effectively. This can lead to a heightened perception of stress and a diminished sense of control over one's emotions. 22
Sleep disruption	Elevated temperatures can disturb sleep patterns, impacting mental well‐being. Poor sleep quality due to heat can lead to restlessness, difficulty falling asleep, and frequent awakenings during the night. Sleep disruption can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and contribute to feelings of irritability and fatigue. 57
Decreased motivation	Heat‐induced discomfort may lead to decreased motivation to engage in activities. The physiological strain of high temperatures can drain energy levels and dampen enthusiasm, potentially resulting in reduced participation in social, work, and leisure activities. 58
Feelings of helplessness	Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can evoke a sense of helplessness and vulnerability. The perception of being unable to escape or control the environmental stressor can lead to feelings of despair and powerlessness, contributing to emotional distress. 45
Aggravation of pre‐existing mental health conditions	High temperatures can exacerbate symptoms of pre‐existing mental health conditions. Individuals with conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, or bipolar disorder may experience intensified symptoms during heatwaves, making it crucial to manage their mental health effectively. 59