The pollution-filled environment can make you a victim of depression, research revealed!
When you are living in toxic air, then you should know that this air pollution is not only causing burning eyes, sore throat, and shortness of breath, but it is also affecting your mental health.
The level of air pollution has reached the highest level in the last three years, which is creating a serious health problem. Air pollution is not only taking a toll on your lungs, but it is also affecting your mental health. According to a recent study, air pollution can increase depression and stress levels in youth.
What Does The Research Say?
According to a study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, rising levels of air pollution are responsible for increasing depression and stress levels in youth. Due to this, the level of suicide among youth is increasing. This toxic air is badly affecting your physical health as well as your mental health.
The research examined the social stress levels of some youth, which included a 5-minute speech and math test. After studying the heart rate and other physiological responses of the participants in the study, it was found that they had an autonomic response to stress with an increased stress level of 2.5.
The Relationship Between Air Pollution And Stress Or Depression
The study did not clarify the link between toxic air and excessive stress or depression, but this study re-emphasizes the fact that toxic air can also impair neurodevelopment and cognitive function.
To avoid air pollution, it is advised doctors avoid going out unless necessary. Because this toxic air can cause you trouble breathing rapidly. In such a situation, it is responsible for putting anyone under stress and bad mood.
How Can Air Pollution Make You Depressed?
According to 2018 China data published in the Ochsner Journal, for every 1% increase in PM 2.5 in the atmosphere, mental stress or depression can increase by 6.67%.
Therefore, toxic air can not only damage your lungs but also affects the way you think. There is a dire need for in-depth research to determine how much air pollution is harming our mental health.
