Hot weather and heatwaves are increasing in Australia and worldwide. They are expected to continue as a part of climate change.  

Mild or warm heat can affect children and young people’s mental health beyond concern or worry about climate change. Impacts on mental health can occur when the average temperature remains at  22°C  for a period of 24 hours.

For information on climate concerns visit the Mental health and climate change website. There are resources For parents and carers and For children and young people.

When temperatures are hotter than usual, children, teenagers and adults can feel more irritable.  This can lead to increased conflicts, arguments and even physical violence. 

If you or your child are in danger, or if you have been threatened, physically hurt or sexually assaulted, call triple zero (000). For 24/7 support, information and counselling call: 

• NSW Domestic Violence line on 1800 65 64 63
• Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling service on 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732)
• Child Protection Helpline on 13 21 11
• Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Support on 13 Yarn (13 92 76) 

The impact of hot weather affects the online world too - social media posts can become more negative and distressing in hotter conditions.  

Be aware of the increased negativity on social media during hot periods; consider different indoor activities for children, like crafts, games or reading.  If you child is online or has social media, it is important to be aware and interested in what they are seeing and hearing to provide support if needed. 

Even in moderately hot weather, there is an increase in children and young people presenting to emergency departments with mental health concerns.  Hospital presentations include: 

• mental distress
• anxiety
• depression
• distorted or disconnected perception
• suicidality. 

Use of alcohol and other drugs during hot weather is more likely to make young people seriously ill.  

If your child is taking prescription medicine to support a mental health condition, do not change the dosage without speaking to your family doctor or specialist. 

How to be heat aware and prepared 

Hotter weather is one of the impacts of climate change. To help protect children and young people from these impacts, Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network has set net zero targets to ensure we are continually reducing our emissions, minimising our impact on the environment and creating a more sustainable future. See how we're achieving this.