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Heatwaves & mental health
Heatwaves are increasingly becoming a major concern not only for physical health but also for mental well-being. Research highlights a troubling link between soaring temperatures and a surge in mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.
For every 1°C rise in monthly average temperature, there is a 2.2% increase in mental health-related deaths. Emergency rooms often see a spike in visits during heatwaves, with patients suffering from dehydration and delirium. However, the impact on those with existing mental health conditions is profound. High temperatures exacerbate depressive and anxiety symptoms and can trigger manic episodes in people with bipolar disorder, sometimes leading to hospitalization. Medications for psychiatric illnesses can become less effective or even harmful.
Antipsychotics, for example, can reduce the ability to sense thirst, increasing the risk of dehydration. Similarly, the mood stabilizer lithium can become dangerous i dehydration occurs. Cognitive abilities also suffer in extreme heat. A study in Boston revealed that students without air conditioning performed 13% worse on cognitive tests during a heatwave. Heat stress impairs brain functions necessary for solving complex tasks, leading to frustration and aggression.
TOUSEEF A BOUK
Larkana, Sindh
Nature’s lifesavers
Global warming stands as one of the most pressing challenges of our time, unleashing catastrophic floods and wildfires across the globe. Glaciers, once formidable symbols of stability, are now melting at alarming rates, contributing to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. In the face of this crisis, trees emerge as indispensable allies in our fight against environmental degradation.
Trees play a dual role in combating climate change and improving air quality. Through photosynthesis, they absorb carbon dioxide, the main driver of global warming, while releasing essential oxygen. Additionally, trees act as natural air purifiers, filtering out harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides and sulphur dioxide. Their dense foliage serves as a shield, safeguarding communities from urban pollution and reducing the need for air conditioning in cities, thereby lowering energy consumption and mitigating the urban heat island effect.
Trees play a crucial role beyond improving air quality; they are essential for water conservation and management. Their roots stabilize soil, preventing erosion and landslides. By intercepting rainfall, trees slow water flow, replenishing aquifers and mitigating floods. They also provide habitat and food for diverse species, fostering biodiversity and ecological resilience. Whether in forests or urban areas, trees offer sanctuary for wildlife and enrich communities aesthetically and culturally, symbolizing resilience and interconnectedness.
In essence, the act of planting and preserving trees transcends mere environmental stewardship; it is a profound commitment to the well-being of future generations. By recognizing the myriad benefits of trees and integrating them into our landscapes, we can forge a path towards a more sustainable and resilient future for all.
SAJID ALI NAICH
Khairpur Nathan Shah
Turbat’s power dilemma
Electricity is indeed a vital resource in today’s society, impacting nearly every aspect of our daily lives. In Turbat city, the limited availability of electricity, with only 10 hours of power in a 24-hour period, presents significant challenges for residents. This situation can disrupt daily routines, hinder productivity and affect essential services that rely on uninterrupted power supply.
Given the importance of electricity for various activities such as lighting, cooking, communication and running essential appliances, the limited hours of electricity in Turbat city highlight the need for immediate action from the government and local administration. Ensuring a stable and consistent power supply is crucial for meeting the basic needs of the residents and facilitating economic development in the region.
TALAL RAFIQ RIND
Turbat
