Content Warning

The episode mentions domestic and sexual violence, and online hate in this episode which might be distressing for some listeners. Later on there is a more in-depth discussion of mental illness including suicidal ideation. The presenter announces when the more in-depth discussion begins and provides support service contacts for anyone needing help at the end of the show.

Part 2 Exploring Extreme Heat: Mental Health 

How does heat affect the way we think, feel, and behave?

Today on Earth Matters we continue our exploration of the impacts of extreme heat on Australian lives. We look at how hot weather affects physical health and mental health, as well as secondary impacts like increased domestic violence and online hate speech.

We learn of an alarming trend of increased mental health emergency presentations among young people during warm and hot weather and the importance of maintaining mental health care including medications during these times.

Guests:  Kellie Caught, Programme Director for Climate and Energy at the Australian Council of Social Service.

Dr Cybele Dey, member of Doctors for the Environment Australia and child and adolescent psychiatrist working in the Sydney Children's Hospital Network.

Episode #1558: Producer/presenter: Claudia Craig

Photo image: Tatiana Syrikova

Crisis numbers and support

LIFELINE 13 11 14

1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732 | or visit1800respect.org.au  

First Peoples support:

13YARN: 13 92 76 | 13yarn.org.au

Yarning Safe'n'Strong: 1800 959 563

Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 | beyondblue.org.au

Suicide Call Back Service  1300 659 467

For anyone in immediate danger call Triple Zero 000. 

Resources

https://www.dea.org.au/how_climate_change_affects_mental_health_in_australia

https://www.acoss.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Heat-in-Homes-Digital-1.0.pdf

DEA Heat Health Fact Sheet:

https://assets.nationbuilder.com/docsenvaus/pages/382/attachments/origin...

Missed Part One of the Exploring Extreme Heat series? 

Catch up by podcast here: Part One Exploring Extreme Heat.