When poet and author Charly Cox from London, 30, posted a guide to Instagram about how to survive a heatwave if you’re taking SSRIs or SNRIs (commonly prescribed medications for depression and anxiety), she wasn’t prepared for the overwhelming response it would prompt – so many people unaware that this might be the reason they were struggling too.
“I’ve been taking an SNRI for five years now, and antidepressants and antipsychotics on and off for the last 15 years,” she says. “About two years ago, I’d increased my dose, and it was a really hot day. I remember everyone had that lovely glowy summer sheen and I was just pouring with sweat. I felt so tired, my skin was all prickly. I couldn’t work it out, I’ve always loved the sun but I couldn’t hack it”.
After doing some research, Charly discovered antidepressants can influence how your body regulates heat, which can make some people more susceptible to overheating, dehydration and heat exhaustion. Charity Mental Health UK says: “Certain antidepressants can affect body temperature and make you more sensitive to heat. This is because they interfere with the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for temperature regulation.”
Shorts
