When the Temperature Rises: What to Know About Psychiatric Medications and Extreme Heat
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Summer in the rural Midwest often means county fairs, time at the lake, gardening, and evenings spent visiting on the porch. It also means paying close attention when temperatures climb into dangerous territory. If you take psychiatric medication, or care about someone who does, it is especially important to understand how extreme heat can affect your body.
Many psychiatric medications can make it harder for your body to cool itself or stay properly hydrated. This does not mean you should stop taking your medication. In fact, stopping psychiatric medication without talking to your prescribing provider can be dangerous. Instead, it means taking a few extra precautions during periods of extreme heat.
Some medications that can increase the risk of heat related illness include antipsychotic medications such as olanzapine, risperidone, quetiapine, and haloperidol. Certain antidepressants, especially tricyclic antidepressants, can also interfere with the body's ability to regulate temperature. Mood stabilizers like lithium deserve special attention because dehydration can increase lithium levels in the body and lead to toxicity. Some medications used for anxiety, sleep, or attention disorders may also affect hydration, alertness, or body temperature. If you are unsure whether your medication increases your risk, ask your prescriber or pharmacist.
Heat exhaustion is your body's way of telling you it is struggling to keep up. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, fatigue, cool or clammy skin, and feeling faint. If this happens, move to a cool place as soon as possible, sip cool water or an electrolyte drink if you are able, loosen or remove extra layers of clothing, and use cool wet cloths or a fan to help lower your body temperature. Rest until you are feeling better, and avoid returning to the heat too soon.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Warning signs include a body temperature of 104 degrees or higher, confusion, slurred speech, loss of consciousness, seizures, hot skin, or changes in behavior. Someone experiencing heat stroke needs immediate emergency medical care. Call 911 right away and begin cooling the person while waiting for help.
The best approach is prevention. Drink water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. Spend time in air conditioned spaces whenever possible. Wear lightweight, light colored clothing. Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the afternoon, and take frequent breaks if you must be outside. Check on older adults, children, neighbors, and anyone living with a chronic medical or mental health condition. A quick phone call or visit can make a real difference.
One of the most important things I tell clients is that taking care of your mental health also means taking care of your physical health. Our minds and bodies are connected. During a heat wave, slowing down, staying hydrated, and asking for help when you need it are not signs of weakness. They are practical ways to care for yourself so you can continue enjoying the people and moments that matter most.
If you’re curious to learn more about me, my services, or how we might work together, I invite you to visit my profile on Psychology Today:
👉 Charlotte Heinz-Hoefert, LPCC,NCC – Psychology Today
We are all beautifully woven.
Warmly,
Charlotte Heinz-Hoefert, MS, LPCC, NCC