As summer approaches, a family begins to notice subtle but concerning changes. Moods shift faster, sleep breaks down, and routines that once felt steady become harder to maintain, even before the hottest days arrive.

This experience is more common than many realise. Hot weather emotions often build gradually, affecting emotional balance, energy levels, and behaviour. For people with disability, these changes can appear earlier and feel more intense, revealing where support may need adjustment.

How heat impacts mood, sleep, and emotional regulation

Heat places extra pressure on both the body and the mind. As temperatures rise, the body works harder to stay cool, which can lead to increased irritability, feeling overwhelmed more easily, and reduced tolerance for change.

Sleep is often affected first. Hot nights can make it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep, leading to poor-quality rest. When sleep is disrupted, emotional regulation becomes more difficult the following day.

Because emotional regulation requires energy, heat can reduce a person’s ability to manage emotions calmly. This helps explain why behaviour changes in summer NDIS participants are commonly seen during warmer months.

Why people with disability may feel this sooner or stronger

People with disabilities may experience the effects of heat more strongly due to sensory sensitivities, neurological or cognitive differences, medication side effects, difficulty regulating body temperature, and a high reliance on routine and predictability.

Even small changes in temperature, sleep patterns, or environment can create emotional stress. As a result, support needs during heatwaves often increase, even when formal supports remain unchanged.

Why these changes often show gaps in support plans

Summer rarely creates new problems. Instead, it brings existing gaps in support into clearer focus.

Families may notice increased emotional distress, withdrawal or shutdown, reduced engagement in daily activities, or a rise in challenging behaviours. These changes often develop gradually as the weather becomes warmer.

Importantly, these signs are not failures. They are signals that current supports may not be flexible enough to meet seasonal needs, and that adjustments may be required to better support wellbeing during summer. 

Support approaches that help during hot weather

• During summer, supporters often need to be more flexible and responsive to changing conditions. Three approaches can make a meaningful difference.
• Adjusted routines: Hot weather can make rigid schedules overwhelming. Earlier start times, shorter activities, and more frequent rest help protect wellbeing. Supporting NDIS routines in hot weather means adjusting expectations to maintain emotional stability.
• Flexible daily living support: As energy levels change, support should focus on emotional regulation rather than task completion. Choice, pacing, and reduced pressure are key elements of NDIS emotional regulation support during warmer months.
• Environment-aware care: Staying cool matters. Access to shaded or cool spaces, regular hydration, quiet rest periods, and slower daily pacing can reduce emotional stress and improve regulation.

Summer Reveals What Needs Adjusting

Summer doesn’t cause the problem — it reveals what needs adjusting. Hot weather highlights where routines, environments, or supports no longer meet a person’s needs. Recognising these signals early allows families and providers to adapt before challenges escalate.

At Lotus Disability Care, we support individuals and families to adjust care as needs change, including during warmer months. If summer is affecting emotional regulation or daily routines, it may be time to review and adapt your NDIS supports.Learn how Lotus Care Disability can support you. Contact our team to discuss flexible NDIS support.