El Niño's Heat May Impact Mental Health, Sri Lankan Doctor Warns

Dr. Rumy Ruban, a consultant psychiatrist at Galle National Hospital in Sri Lanka, warns that escalating global temperatures driven by El Niño could lead to a rise in mental health problems. He notes that higher heat levels can significantly alter individuals' behavior, manifesting as increased anger, restlessness, mental stress, and insomnia.

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If the environmental temperature rises further due to El Niño, there will be an increase in the number of people suffering from mental illnesses.

Beyond these immediate effects, Ruban explains that conditions like anxiety and depression may also worsen. These impacts are expected to be more pronounced in both the elderly and children. For younger individuals, excessive heat can reduce tolerance, provoke frequent anger, and hinder their ability to concentrate.

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With rising temperatures, significant changes can occur in symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, mental stress, and insomnia.

The psychiatrist also highlighted the dangers for drivers, stating that high temperatures can diminish their capacity for quick decision-making, thereby elevating the risk of traffic accidents. Furthermore, he emphasized that reduced water intake amid high temperatures can lead to physical dehydration, potentially causing fainting spells.

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In addition to this, conditions like anxiety and depression can also increase.