Mental Health in the Heat: Summer Medication Tips You Need to Know
Taking medication to manage mental health symptoms is a personal and empowering choice, one that can significantly improve your overall well-being. Now that you’re feeling better, it’s time to fully enjoy all that summer has to offer! As you embrace the season, keep these three essential tips in mind for safely managing psychiatric medications during the warmer months.
Heat Intolerance and SSRIs
There are many medications that can make people prone to dehydrating and, therefore, overheating easily. SSRIs (e.g., Zoloft, Lexapro) and SNRIs (e.g., Cymbalta) happen to fall into this category. This doesn’t have to stop your summer fun. Here are some tips to help with avoiding overheating:
Avoid going outside during peak heat hours
Stay cool indoors or, if outside, in the shade
Stay hydrated and bring extra water
Wear light clothing
SSRI Medication Reminders
Summer also provides an opportunity for many people to take vacations and trips. It is not unusual for changes in routine to cause some people to forget to take their medication. If this is the case, set extra reminders to help you remember. Ask a friend or family member to remind you, use a pill organizer, or set an alarm on your phone. Prefer something more tech savvy? You can use medication reminder apps like those here or devices you place on your medication bottle like a timer cap or GlowCaps might be more your speed.
Whenever traveling, remember to make sure you have enough medication for your trip plus some extra. If you forget your medicine while you are traveling, contact your pharmacy and/or prescriber for assistance. It is important to keep up with taking your medication regularly and as prescribed so that you can keep having fun and avoid withdrawal symptoms. Consult with your prescriber, pharmacist, or medication literature for information on what to do if you miss a dose. If you are traveling by plane, keep your medication in your carry on in the event that your checked bag gets lost.
Alcohol Use and SSRIs
Combining certain substances like alcohol with medication can interfere with the efficacy of your medication as well as cause potentially serious health issues like seizures or sedation. Talk with your prescriber or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to drink safely while being prescribed medication. (And don’t forget that alcohol dehydrates you!)
Summer is a time for sunshine, connection, and making memories, and your mental health doesn’t have to take a backseat just because you’re busy having fun in the sun. By staying mindful of heat sensitivity, building in medication reminders, and being cautious with alcohol, you can fully enjoy the season while prioritizing your well-being. A little planning goes a long way in helping you feel your best all summer long. When in doubt, don’t hesitate to check in with your prescriber or pharmacist for support. Your health matters, so go ahead and live your best summer life, safely and confidently.
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Written by: Sara Secada-Lovio, LCPC
