Mmegi

How heatwaves are making you angrier, irritable and depressed

Anguish: The short and long term effects of prolonged heatwaves on mental health revolve around raised anxiety and other disturbances PIC: THERAPYFORBLACKMEN.ORG
Anguish: The short and long term effects of prolonged heatwaves on mental health revolve around raised anxiety and other disturbances PIC: THERAPYFORBLACKMEN.ORG

A local clinical psychologist says the persistent heatwaves since October are making people more irritable, depressive and forgetful while also disrupting sleep, amidst numerous other effects on mental health. Staff Writer, MBONGENI MGUNI reports

The country is experiencing one of the most prolonged periods of above average temperatures this summer. Besides the obvious effects of rolling heatwaves on livelihoods, these conditions also put significant challenges on mental health.

This week, Mmegi spoke to Dr PJ van der Walt, a doctor (PhD) in Clinical Psychology. Van der Walt runs a clinic in Block 10, Gaborone.

Editor's Comment
Justice delayed is trust denied

Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...

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