Living on the Sunshine Coast means we’re lucky to enjoy a warm, outdoor lifestyle — but when the temperatures soar, the heat can take a toll not just on our physical health, but also on our mental wellbeing. Hot, humid weather can lead to fatigue, irritability, disrupted sleep, and even increased anxiety or low mood.
Here are some practical tips to help you maintain good mental health through the hot weather season.
🌡️ 1. Stay Cool and Hydrated
Heat can affect mood and concentration, so keeping your body temperature regulated is key.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Use a fan or air conditioning where possible.
- Take cool showers or use a damp cloth on your wrists and neck to help your body cool down.
- Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol — they can increase dehydration.
😴 2. Prioritise Restful Sleep
Hot nights can make it hard to get quality rest. Lack of sleep affects emotional regulation and stress tolerance.
- Keep your bedroom as cool and dark as possible.
- Try light bedding and cotton sheets.
- Avoid screens and heavy meals before bed.
- If you wake up feeling tired, allow yourself to rest during the day — your body is working harder in the heat.
🧘♀️ 3. Listen to Your Body and Pace Yourself
The heat can drain your energy faster than usual.
- Don’t push yourself to maintain your usual pace — slow down where you can.
- Take breaks in the shade and avoid being outdoors during peak heat hours (10am–3pm).
- Remember, rest isn’t laziness — it’s self-care.
🌴 4. Keep Up Your Routines (But Flex Them)
Maintaining structure supports mental health, but it’s okay to adapt your habits for the season.
- Exercise early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
- Swap intense workouts for gentle activities like swimming, yoga, or walking along the water.
- Continue your social and self-care routines — perhaps catch up with friends for an iced coffee instead of a walk in the sun.
🤝 5. Stay Connected
Extreme weather can make us more likely to retreat indoors and become isolated.
- Check in with friends, neighbours, and family, especially those who may struggle in the heat.
- If you’re feeling flat or irritable, reach out for a chat — connection can lift your mood.
- Consider booking a counselling session if the heat or summer stress feels overwhelming.
💭 6. Practise Mindfulness and Self-Compassion
It’s easy to get frustrated when the heat disrupts your routine or comfort.
- Use mindfulness to stay present: notice the sensations of warmth, your breath, and your surroundings without judgment.
- Remind yourself that slower, gentler days are part of living in a warm climate — and it’s okay to adjust expectations.
☀️ A Final Word
The Sunshine Coast summer brings beauty and vitality, but it also challenges our bodies and minds. By taking small, mindful steps to care for yourself — staying cool, staying connected, and staying kind to yourself — you can keep your mental health strong through the season.
If you’re finding the heat, stress, or mood changes difficult to manage, Sunny Coast Counselling is here to help. Sometimes a supportive chat can make all the difference.
You can book a counselling session here.