The hot weather experienced these days is not only taking a toll on physical health but is also affecting people's emotions and mood, according to a clinical psychologist.

The pervasive heat is associated with various health issues, and it is impacting people emotionally.

Clinical Psychologist Niño Galacgac of Lipa City, Batangas explains that heat brings forth different psychological responses, including anger, anxiety, and irritability.

"Hindi rin tayo immune sa mga ano, sa impact ng weather sa psychology natin. So, kapag uncomfortable tapos stressful sa pakiramdam, ang madalas na emotions na nati-trigger niyan ay anger, pagkabalisa, parang pagka-iritable," Galacgac said.

These are normal reactions of the body and mind to the environment.

To mitigate irritability or frustration, Galacgac suggests finding ways to relax.

"Puwedeng pumunta ka sa isang lugar na komportable ka… sa medyo mas malakas ang hangin kasi bukod sa makakatulong 'yun sa katawan mo, 'yung mood mo kapag komportable ang katawan, 'yung mood mo mas okay din," Galacgac said.

He added that persistent mood swings due to the weather may also warrant consultation with an expert.

The prevailing weather system in Southern Luzon is the Easterlies, characterized by warm winds from the Pacific Ocean, which adds to the high temperature.

Where there is no declaration of an official dry season just yet, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recorded a heat index of 34 to 38 degrees Celsius in Batangas.

The heat index is the perceived temperature based on the actual air temperature and humidity.

A Ridge of High-Pressure Area, which results in fewer clouds and more intense heat, is also amplifying the heat.

"Pagka po Ridge of High-Pressure Area, 'yan po talaga, maalinsangan po 'yung ating panahon, mainit. Atsaka, cause na rin po 'yan ng El Niño," Michael Mangubat, the Chief Meteorological Officer of PAGASA-Ambulong said.