People with Mental Illness and Heat Illness

Why worry about them when it is hot?

Medications: Some medications used to treat mental illness, such as anti-psychotics, make it harder for the body to cool down.
Housing: Many people with mental illnesses live in poor conditions and without air conditioning, making them more likely to have problems in heat.
Impaired Judgment: Sometimes people with mental illness have trouble figuring out what they need to do to stay healthy and safe.

Keep cool, drink fluids, lie low
Use air conditioning to keep cool.
If you don't have air conditioning spend time in an air-conditioned place like a library, store, community center, cooling center, or restaurant. If you can't drive yourself, ask a friend, neighbor, or relative to take you.
Talk with your doctor if you have questions about your medication and heat illness.

Twice a day, check on people with mental illness, especially those taking anti-psychotic medications. Watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Provide an air conditioner. If there is no air conditioner where they live, get the person to an air-conditioned place like a library, store, community center, cooling center, or restaurant.
Make sure they have access to cool water – a bath, shower, or wet towels can help cool someone down.
Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is hotter than the mid-90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath, or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off.
Tell them to drink lots of water or other drinks without caffeine or alcohol even if they are not very active.
Make sure their clothing is loose and lightweight.