Pakistan, May 30 -- A new study has revealed that the rising intensity of global heat, driven by climate change, is affecting not just physical health but mental well-being as well. Researchers from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that most countries are failing to address this growing concern in their heat action plans.

The study examined 83 Heat Health Action Plans (HHAPs) from 24 countries. It discovered that while 75% of these plans mention mental health in general, only 31% specifically address mental issues linked to heatwaves-such as increased suicide risk or psychological emergencies. Most plans also lacked concrete steps or protective strategies to manage such impacts.

Experts involved in the study s...