Climate induced heat stress and its psychological effects among South Indian workers

Rising temperatures and extreme weather pose a significant public health threat. Workers in low- and middle-income countries are particularly vulnerable to heat stress, which can lead to psychological repercussions, including climate anxiety. This study investigated the psychological impacts of heat stress and coping strategies among workers in relation to climate anxiety.

A cross-sectional survey of 800 indoor and outdoor workers was conducted in 2024. Environmental heat stress was measured using a wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) monitor, defining heat stress as exceeding task-specific threshold limits. Heat strain indicators (HSIs) such as core body temperature (CBT) and urine specific gravity (USG) were assessed alongside perceived heat stress and psychological impacts using a validated HOTHAPS questionnaire.

The WBGT exceeded recommended limits for 62% of workers (30.3 ± 5.0 °C). Among heat-exposed workers, 80% reported heat-related health symptoms, with a significant rise in HSIs, including CBT (AOR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4-2.7). Psychological symptoms were prevalent in 94% of exposed workers, with heightened risks of climate anxiety (AOR = 2.8), stress (AOR = 2.7), and mental fatigue (AOR = 3.7). Women and summer months showed greater vulnerability.

Heat stress significantly affects psychological well-being among South Indian workers. Protective workplace policies are crucial to mitigating climate-induced psychological impacts.