Summer heat is a stress factor that plays against the mood . When people are hot, they are less tolerant and become frustrated, impulsive and more prone to anger.
How mood is affected
High temperatures and humidity act on neuroendocrine systems . On the one hand, the heat stimulates the activity of glutamate, a neurotransmitter that exerts a powerful exciting action on brain circuits. On the other hand, that of GABA, the chemical mediator that makes us calm and relaxed, is reduced. To these mechanisms is added the lack of sleep caused by heat and the risk of dehydration, which can also have consequences on mood and behavior. The result tilts the brain that cannot handle the stimuli it receives. In parallel with the mercury column, therefore, fatigue, irritability and moodiness increase .
Hot and increased aggression
The brain is sensitive to temperature increases, humidity and hours of exposure to light. These three factors act as a trigger in individuals with a fragile balance from a psychological-relational point of view. Like all stress factors, therefore, intolerance to summer heat can occur, even with hostile behavior and increased aggression .
