AS another spell of hot weather arrives, many of us are looking forward to longer evenings and spending time outdoors with barbecues and paddling pools!
But while warmer days can bring enjoyment, there is growing evidence that rising temperatures can also affect our wellbeing in unexpected ways.
Heat can make us more irritable, disrupt our sleep and increase feelings of stress and anxiety.
At the same time, the wider world often feels increasingly unsettled. News reports of conflicts overseas, economic uncertainty and the effects of climate change can leave many people feeling overwhelmed.
For some York residents, these pressures can combine to create a sense that life is becoming harder to navigate.
At Citizens Advice York, we see every day how global events often translate into local challenges.
When international tensions affect energy markets, household bills rise. When supply chains are disrupted, the cost of everyday essentials increases. When uncertainty dominates the headlines, people naturally worry about what the future might hold for themselves and their families.
These concerns are entirely understandable. Yet they can also take a toll on our mental wellbeing, particularly when they are combined with personal financial pressures, caring responsibilities or health concerns.
We know that many people are feeling the strain. Some are anxious about making ends meet over the summer holidays, especially when schools close and free school meals are no longer an option.
Others worry about paying for cooling their homes during heatwaves, while still keeping energy costs under control. We are all becoming aware that UK houses were mostly not built to deal with extreme heat. Older people and people with babies and small children may be concerned about staying safe during periods of extreme heat. Parents may be juggling childcare, rising food costs and work commitments.
Sometimes it isn’t one big problem that brings someone to Citizens Advice York. It’s several smaller worries that gradually build up until they begin to feel unmanageable.
Stress often affects more than our emotions. It can make it harder to think clearly, make decisions or know where to turn for help. People may delay opening letters, avoid answering phone calls or put off dealing with financial or family issues because everything feels too overwhelming.
Keeping cool is one way to cope with the hot weather. Image: Pixabay (Image: CCN)
That is where talking to someone can make a real difference.
Citizens Advice York provides free, confidential and independent advice on a wide range of issues, including debt, benefits, housing, employment, consumer problems and energy costs. While we are not a mental health service, reducing practical worries can often help reduce emotional stress as well.
Many people tell us they feel better simply after having a conversation with one of our advisers. Having someone listen without judgement, explain your options clearly and help you take the next step can restore a sense of control when life feels uncertain.
If you’re worried about paying your bills, we can help you understand your options before problems become crises. If you’re struggling with debt, we can help you create a realistic plan and negotiate with creditors where appropriate. If your income has changed, we can check whether you’re receiving all the financial support you’re entitled to.
We also work closely with other organisations across York and can help people find specialist support where needed, including services that focus on mental health and emotional wellbeing.
It’s important to remember that stress is a normal response to difficult circumstances. None of us are immune to worrying when the news feels relentless or when our own finances become stretched.
There are also small steps we can all take to look after ourselves during periods of hot weather. Staying hydrated, taking breaks from continuous news coverage, checking in with neighbours who may be vulnerable, telling trusted friends and family how you are feeling and making time for rest can all make a positive difference.
Even a short conversation with a friend, family member or trusted organisation can help prevent worries from growing.
York has always been a city with a strong sense of community. Throughout recent years, we’ve seen neighbours supporting neighbours through floods, the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. That same community spirit remains one of our greatest strengths as we face new challenges.
The issues affecting the world may sometimes feel beyond our control. But seeking advice, asking for help and supporting one another are things we can all do.
If rising temperatures, rising costs or rising worries are affecting you, you don’t have to face them alone.
At Citizens Advice York, we’re here to help people find practical solutions, understand their rights and regain confidence during difficult times. Sometimes the first step is simply having a conversation.
This summer, if you or someone you know is feeling the pressure, please remember that help is available. Reaching out is not a sign of weakness, it is often the beginning of finding a way forward.
Citizens Advice York is a small independent charity providing support and advice to Yorkresidents on all of the topics mentioned here!
Whilst City of York Council remain consistent and generous funders, we still have to raise £30,000 to £40,000 each and every year (and sometimes more!) to cover the full cost of this important service. We could not operate without the generosity of donations to fill this gap. We are incredibly grateful of support, especially when everyone is feeling the effects of this current cost of living crisis.
We know that times are hard, but if you are able to help please donate so we can keep on helping others. You can make a one off donation or become a “Friend of Citizens Advice York” and make a monthly subscription. You will receive a quarterly newsletter and an invitation to our AGM and annual fundraising event.
More at: https://www.citizensadviceyork.org.uk/donate/
Or, for details of how to become a Friend of Citizens Advice York, please email admin.team@cayork.org or call 01904 623648.
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