Impact of heatwaves on depression and anxiety in India: A time-series analysis
Murali M.R, Rahul Tiwari, Gayathri Priyadarshini R.S, Heena Dixit Tiwari, Prashant M.C, Tohid Ali, Afroz Kalmee Syed
TL;DR
This study explores how heatwaves in India are linked to increased hospitalizations for depression and anxiety, highlighting the need for mental health in climate action plans.
Contribution
The study provides novel evidence on the psychiatric impact of heatwaves in India, focusing on vulnerable populations.
Findings
Heatwave days were associated with modest but significant increases in depression and anxiety admissions.
Women and older adults were found to be more vulnerable to the mental health effects of heatwaves.
Abstract
Climate change has intensified heatwaves in India, yet their impact on psychiatric hospitalizations remains underexplored. We conducted a two-year time-series research (2022-2023) at a tertiary care hospital, examining daily admissions for depression and anxiety against meteorological data. Hence, a total of 4,320 psychiatric admissions were recorded, including 1,750 for depression and 2,570 for anxiety. Data shows that heatwave days were associated with modest but significant increases in admissions for both conditions. Women and older adults were more vulnerable. Integrating mental health into heat action plans is warranted.
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Taxonomy
TopicsClimate Change and Health Impacts · Circadian rhythm and melatonin · Climate variability and models