How the Summer Heat Affects Your Mood

The next time a friend calls you and asks for a favor, how willing you are to lend a hand may have a lot to do with one unexpected factor: the heat. According to a new study in the European Journal of Social Psychology, uncomfortably hot environments make people less likely to help others in need.

Past research has demonstrated—and you may certainly agree—that a really hot day can induce feelings of grumpiness and even hostility toward everyone around you.