Coping with Hot Weather as an HSP
Ivy Griffin
The hot summer months can be a challenging time for highly sensitive people (HSPs). Though it’s only spring, those of us who are sensitive to heat are already dreading the increasingly hot days (and nights). With the hot weather and longer days, life can feel
extra overwhelming. Even the most seemingly innocuous activities can leave you feeling overwhelmed and drained. Here are some tips for coping with rising temperatures as an HSP:
1. Plan for discomfort. I know, it doesn’t sound very optimistic. However, thinking ahead can help us have the tools and support we need when we’re in an uncomfortable situation. Planning ahead for hot days might involve saving certain activities for cooler parts of the day, stocking the freezer with ice packs and popsicles, or exploring fabrics and articles of clothing that are cooling and comfortable.
2. Manage your expectations. HSPs are often plagued by high expectations and perfectionistic tendencies. To survive the hot days, it is important to focus on what is manageable and achievable. Doing too much at once can be especially detrimental when overwhelming environmental factors (like heat, the bright light of the sun, and longer days) are at play.
3. Plan for rest. Expect to need breaks. Take a cool shower, or go for a swim if possible. Enjoy a cold drink in the shade. Spend time in air conditioning, or even just sit in a dark room for a few minutes to cool off. Doing something that relaxes you can help you to better cope with the heat.
4. Be mindful. Take time to check in with yourself throughout the day. Do you need water? Are you still wearing a sweater even though you’re feeling hot? Do you need to take a break? Are you sitting in the sun even though there is a shady spot nearby? It can be easy to get so swept up in our tasks and surroundings
that we forget to check in with how we are actually feeling. That is, until it’s too late and we’re already feeling beyond our limits. The more we can check in with ourselves, the sooner we can identify and meet our needs.
While these tips for coping with hot weather will not rid us of discomfort altogether, they can hopefully make the warm seasons a bit more bearable.
For some of us, warming days can cause additional distress, as they are a reminder of the realities of climate change. It is common for sensitive types to have a heightened awareness of social issues, and the climate crisis is an issue that impacts every being on the planet. If you find yourself experiencing a spike in eco-anxiety, please know that your experience is a valid, understandable response. You are not alone. It could be
useful to connect with a climate-aware therapist, explore activism opportunities, and build community around shared values.
Lou Ursa, AMFT #126881
Supervised by Danielle Kardum, LMFT #114847
Thrive Therapy
916-287-3430
https://thrivetherapyandcounseling.com/kayla-lou-ursa