Image by Ralf Vetterle from Pixabay.
Written by Jen Dee.
Anxiety is caused by various factors such as trauma, stress, negative life events, and genetics, to name a few. But did you know that poor air quality can also lead to anxiety and other mental health conditions?
According to a review of more than 100 studies on the effects of outdoor air pollution on mental health, 73 percent of the studies reveal that humans and animals exposed to higher-than-average levels of air pollution had more mental health symptoms.
It was also found that those who breathed in polluted air were more likely to develop anxiety or depression than those who breathe clean air.
Coping with anxiety can be challenging, especially if you’re prone to having panic attacks. It can be even more difficult if you live in the city or a place with high pollution levels.
Fortunately, there are ways to manage your mental health condition if you live or work in an area with poor air quality. Here’s what you need to know about the surprising link between air pollution and anxiety, and what you can do to protect yourself and reduce anxiety symptoms.
Exposure to Fine Particulates may Trigger Anxiety Symptoms
The World Health Organization reports that 9 out of 10 people worldwide breathe polluted air. Most of us know that people who live in places with the highest air pollution levels are at risk of developing a wide range of diseases, such as respiratory infections, asthma, and lung cancer.
However, many of us are unaware that breathing in ultrafine particles suspended in the air may result in the development of mental health problems and may even worsen existing health conditions.
According to a study by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, those who have higher exposure to PM2.5 (particles that are 2.5 microns or less in diameter) have an increased risk of developing anxiety symptoms such as fearfulness and a tendency to worry.
The researchers also found that exposure to fine particulates may result in inflammation, which can exacerbate anxiety. PM2.5 originates outdoors but can also go indoors through windows, doors, and tiny cracks in a building or structure.
Particulates can also enter through some central air conditioning systems. Moreover, your air conditioner can worsen indoor air quality if mold or bacteria grows. If you notice bad odor coming from your AC, call a professional to clean your unit deep and improve your indoor air.
Increases Risk of Hospital Admissions
Inpatient treatment is often recommended for people who have developed symptoms of severe anxiety. If a person turns to alcohol or illegal substances to cope with their distress or if they experience debilitating fear when meeting new people, receiving round-the-clock care from health professionals can be beneficial since they may receive therapy or medication to manage their symptoms.
It’s important to note that not everyone who experiences anxiety is going to need hospitalization at some point in their life. Still, some factors may increase their risk of hospital admission. One of these factors is exposure to pollution.
In a study of 261 million residents in 56 cities in China, it was discovered that those who had short-term exposure to ambient or outdoor pollution had an increased risk of anxiety-related hospital admissions. Receiving treatment and care for anxiety is nothing to be ashamed of, but as much as possible, most people want to avoid inpatient care due to its cost.
Protect Yourself from Pollution to Reduce Anxiety Symptoms
Pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide are everywhere. If you’re experiencing anxiety symptoms, you must start protecting yourself from breathing in pollutants as much as you can. Start by wearing a mask whenever you go outside. N95 and KN95 masks can protect you from PM2.5 if you live in a highly polluted area.
Limit your time outdoors and take extra care to keep your indoor air clean. You can do so by frequently vacuuming and dusting, using an air purifier, and adding more houseplants to your living spaces.
Studies show that pollution can trigger anxiety symptoms and aggravate this mental health condition. Protect yourself from breathing in pollutants, and keep your environment clean to safeguard your mental health and well-being.