Air Pollution as a Risk for Mental Health Problems: An Exploratory Study of Direct and Indirect Pathways

Abstract

Background: The World Health Organization defines mental health as a “state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community”. ¹ It is well-known that high levels of air pollution can harm physical health in various ways, increasing the risk of morbidity and early death. However, the impact of air pollution on mental ability & well-being has been less explored. Other associated factors linking air pollution to mental health have been less commented on. Although, in recent years, it has been found that high levels of air pollution can damage children's cognitive abilities, increase risk of cognitive decline in adults and possibly contribute to anxiety & depression. ²

Material and Method: The current study aimed to explore the possible links between mental health and air pollution and exploring the impact of air pollution on mental health (symptoms of anxiety, depression as well as cognitive processes), and well-being (physical, psychological, social functioning), in people residing in Delhi using a mixed method approach. A sample of 511 ‘healthy’ individuals residing in various parts of the city, were first administered self-report questionnaires related to the variables of study. Of these, 20 persons were later also interviewed using a semi-structured schedule to generate narratives related to perceived impact of the air pollution. The qualitative data was carefully studied to understand the thoughts and beliefs that individuals had about the pollution of the region to draw possible reasons of depression, anxiety and compromised well-being.

Results: The results of the study indicated that there were numerous cognitive links that led individuals to feel depressed and anxious considering the air pollution. The cognitive appraisals of the pollution aspect of the state seem to have a direct impact on the affective state of the individuals. There was also preliminary quantitative evidence that suggested an increase in symptoms of anxiety and depression due to exposure to high levels of Air Quality Index. The data collected through semi-structured interviews suggested substantial impact on overall functioning as individuals expressed various concerns related to the impact of air pollution on their health and life.

Conclusion: The study sheds light on the possible links between pollution and mental health. The cognitive outlook of what could be making people have depressive and anxious symptoms has been explored in the current study. The results of the study support the importance of further investigation of mental health effects of air pollution. The cognitive aspect of individuals is a crucial step in understanding the possible mental health impacts that pollution could have on mental health. The study attempts to make some useful recommendations in this regard.