Can Heat Trigger Mental Health Issues? experts tell

Heatwave: According to medical experts, cases of psychosis and bipolar disorder have increased by nearly 50 per cent in major government hospitals and institutions due to the rise in temperature in the last two weeks. A lot if the doctors of King George’s Medical University (KGMU) are to be believed.

Experts said the patients are those who are already suffering from psychological issues and extreme heat or cold makes them vulnerable to such disorders.

However, there is nothing to panic as the incidence of such cases is 50 in 10 lakh population and can be avoided by taking precautions.

Doctors said the number of cases in the outpatient department (OPD) at KGMU has increased from 20-25 to 30-35 daily, while at Balrampur hospital such cases have increased from 45 to 75 daily.

Professor Bandana Gupta, KGMU’s Department of Psychiatry, said psychosis patients may experience hallucinations, delusions or confused thoughts, which can occur during manic or depressive episodes.

Similarly, bipolar disorder can include both mania and depression.

Regarding the relationship between temperature and mental disorders, Professor Gupta said, “Human beings have a biological clock that is mainly controlled by the pituitary gland in the brain. Exposure to heat can disturb this clock, affecting the pituitary and Affects the hormones secreted by the pineal gland, thus triggering psychosis and bipolar disorder.”

Professor Gupta advised family members of patients with family history of stress, anxiety and depression to be cautious during summer. He underlined the importance of taking necessary precautions to avoid extreme heat, such as staying indoors, drinking enough water and avoiding synthetic clothing.

Prof Gupta mentioned the specific symptoms that the attendant should look for in their patients.

These include extreme happiness, hopefulness, and enthusiasm, as well as sudden and severe changes in mood.

Attendants should also be alert to hallucinations, delusions, or delusional thoughts. If any of these symptoms are observed, it is advised to consult a medical professional immediately.

“The condition is often seen in patients in their 30s. Though people should not panic as they may recover, it is important to complete the full course of the medicine,” said Dr Devashish Shukla, psychiatrist, Balrampur Hospital.