IJERPH, Vol. 15, Pages 1515: Possible Biological Mechanisms Linking Mental Health and Heat—A Contemplative Review

IJERPH, Vol. 15, Pages 1515: Possible Biological Mechanisms Linking Mental Health and Heat—A Contemplative Review

International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health doi: 10.3390/ijerph15071515

Authors: Mare Lõhmus

This review provides examples of possible biological mechanisms that could, at least partly, explain the existing epidemiological evidence of heatwave-related exacerbation of mental disease morbidity. The author reviews the complicated central processes involved in the challenge of maintaining a stable body temperature in hot environments, and the maladaptive effects of certain psychiatric medicines on thermoregulation. In addition, the author discusses some alternative mechanisms, such as interrupted functional brain connectivity and the effect of disrupted sleep, which may further increase the vulnerability of mental health patients during heatwaves.

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