The UK's sweltering heatwaves have left many feeling overwhelmed and anxious, with the phenomenon of 'heatwave anxiety' gaining widespread recognition in recent years. A 2022 study by the University of Bath estimated that around 4.6% of the UK population is affected by this distress, which can be a form of climate anxiety. The effects of extreme heat on mental health are being felt acutely, particularly during England's warmest June on record.
For some individuals, the consequences are deeply personal and immediate. Tavia Watts, a 36-year-old mother from Cheltenham, shared her intense anxiety on social media during the June heatwave, describing feelings of helplessness and fear for her young children as their bedroom temperatures exceeded 30C. Thousands resonated with her candid post, revealing a shared experience of distress. Psychologists Dr Caroline Hickman (University of Bath) and Dr Emma Lawrance (University of Oxford) note that 'anticipatory anxiety' is on the rise – where past experiences of traumatic weather events lead to heightened fear of future occurrences. According to Dr Hickman, repeated heatwaves can erode a sense of safety and trust in the world.
Research published in 2025 suggests that young people and women are among those most susceptible to climate anxiety. Lizzie Ellen, a 38-year-old from west London, described feeling isolated and consumed by worry about keeping her newborn cool during recent scorching temperatures. The long-term implications of these escalating weather patterns and the potential for current extreme conditions to become a daily reality within her child's lifetime contribute to a pervasive sense of dread.
The NHS and mental health professionals now acknowledge climate anxiety as a legitimate form of mental distress. The psychological toll can be severe, with Dr Hickman reporting instances of individuals expressing suicidal thoughts or contemplating drastic life changes like moving to cooler climates. This underscores the profound impact that environmental concerns can have on individual well-being.
While the feelings can be overwhelming, experts and individuals alike are exploring coping mechanisms. Tavia Watts channels her anxiety into action, participating in petitions, organising community climate events, and making personal lifestyle changes. Dr Hickman suggests that confronting these feelings can lead to either 'doomism' or a drive to 'do something'. For those struggling, it is crucial to remember that support is available – the NHS advises consulting a GP or calling NHS 111 for mental health concerns, and various organisations offer resources for managing climate-related distress.