Heat Waves in Miami

August 14, 2022 Elsa Orlandini

Have you ever spent time outside and felt your skin sizzle and your scalp burn? Have you felt lightheaded, dizzy, with excessive sweating? These are part of the symptoms of heat exhaustion. It is a severe heat-related illness that requires emergency medical intervention. Heat stroke is the most serious medical condition caused by extreme heat.

Here in Miami, we are blessed with year-round sun but that comes with extreme temperatures and the need to take necessary precautions. During the summers, temperatures of +90 degrees are not uncommon. It is crucial when in these extreme temperatures to take all necessary precautions to prevent requiring medical intervention.

There is another heat related condition called heat stress which we in Miami experience often, especially during the summer months. It is known to affect mood, increase psychological distress and worsen mental health problems. Research has linked high temperatures with memory problems and problems with attention and reaction time. Sleep problems associated with extreme heat can contribute to and further intensify mental health symptoms. It is believed that these heat waves can worsen psychiatric symptoms as well as posing a threat to public health including mental health.

Mental health impacts from extreme heat:

Increased irritability/crankiness

Increase in depressive symptoms

An increase in feelings of hopeless

Affects behavior including
Increased aggression/temper flares
Increased incidence of domestic violence
Increased alcohol consumption
Increased use of other substances to cope

Hot days are associated with dehydration, heat exhaustions and in extreme cases, heat stroke. At greater risk are outdoor workers (agricultural workers, construction workers, landscapers). Elderly individuals, pregnant women, individuals with preexisting conditions and people without access to air conditioning are at higher risk.

What to do:

Stay out of the sun as much as possible

Use sun block

Hydrate regularly

Find places to cool off when needed

Wear light clothes that are more appropriate for heat and humidity

Plan indoor activities where there is air conditioning

If going to the beach monitor your children for signs of heat stress

Use the public beach shower to quickly doust your child in cool water if they are overheated

Don’t stay in the sun too long

Make sure they drink plenty of water

Use a high SPF sunblock

Have them wear light clothing

Limit them to non-strenuous physical activity

Be vigilant of the symptoms mentioned above

Remember that you are modeling responsible behavior for your children

Of note is that children may become more irritable with heat

Children may also appear more agitated

More prone to possible temper tantrums

Please consider the heat and the psychological effect in may have on you and others.  If you are prone to be irritable, reactive or emotional because of the heat please temper what activities and with whom you chose to be with so as to avoid or minimize potentially overwhelming situations.   Modify your plans to areas with air conditioning or schedule early in the morning and in the evenings.   By being aware of your reactions and modifying your plans, it can alleviate undesirable outcomes.

It is important to note that individuals with emotional challenges are at greater risk for heat wave related challenges. Psychologists, counselors, and therapists can assist in helping individuals cope with their heat wave vulnerability. We see this relatively often in sunny South Florida. We at the Miami Psychology Group are here to assist you and guide you through the negative impact of the environmental factors.