Environmental noise can impact mental health

Exposure to pollution, including environmental noise, is associated with higher rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, are the findings of new research. Published this week, the European Environment Agency briefing Pollution and Mental Health: current scientifc evidence, finds that: 

• exposure to environmental noise is associated with a higher prevalence of behavioural issues in children; this in turn affects their mental well-being
• an increase in road traffic noise is correlated with a small increase in the risk of depression (3%) and anxiety (2%)
• there is a significant 2.2% increase in suicide rates per 10dB increase in railway noise.
• a meta-analysis found a 12% increase in depression risk per 10dB Lden increase in aircraft noise.

The report states that reducing pollution, as outlined in the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan (ZPAP), could significantly improve mental wellbeing across Europe. For environmental noise, opportunites for action include stronger regulatory action and improved urban planning to reduce transport noise to achieve the objectives of the ZPAP. Some measures that reduce noise, such as increasing access to green and quiet areas, can also offer co-benefits for mental health as well as climate change adaptation. Others, like improved traffic management, also have co-benefits in terms of reducing air pollution and improving road safety.