Extreme high temperatures double young people’s risk of mental health admissions, Australian research shows
Summary
A study from the University of Sydney found that extremely high temperatures double the chance that young people in New South Wales, Australia, will be admitted to hospital for mental health problems. The research warns that as global heating causes more extreme heat events, these hospital admissions could increase by up to 7.7% by 2100.Key Facts
- The study analyzed 720,000 hospital admissions of young people up to age 24 from 2001 to 2022.
- Admissions for mental health conditions like schizophrenia, depression, substance misuse, eating disorders, and self-harm doubled during very hot days in warmer months.
- In colder months, the risk of admission tripled on extremely hot days.
- Extreme heat impacts brain function, stress management, sleep, and mood, which may explain the rise in hospital admissions.
- The research shows a quick effect of temperature spikes on mental health emergencies, indicating a direct physical response to heat.
- Other studies link heatwaves to increased suicidal thoughts and behavior in young people.
- Experts note that heat can increase impulsive behavior and substance use as coping methods.
- The study is published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
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