Air quality’s impact on mental well-being getting attention in one of the world’s most polluted cities
Jai Dhar, a resident of New Delhi, looks out the window of his house and is greeted by a thick blanket of smog engulfing the city. This sight not only triggers his severe allergies and asthma but also leaves him feeling gloomy. The 52-year-old describes the city as a ghost town, with the air quality index (AQI) reaching hazardous levels above 300, as per the World Health Organization standards.
As temperatures dropped in mid-November, New Delhi’s average AQI soared to 492, making it one of the most polluted cities in the world. The 20 million residents of the city have been grappling with respiratory illnesses, allergic rhinitis, headaches, and skin issues due to the deteriorating air quality. Additionally, the impact of air pollution on mental health is now emerging as a major concern among experts.
Dhar, who considers himself a victim of air pollution, struggles to breathe and relies on a nebulizer to manage his health issues. The worsening air quality during winter exacerbates his health anxiety, leaving him feeling depressed and helpless. Even the Hindu festival of Diwali, traditionally a time of celebration, has lost its charm for him due to the pollution caused by bursting firecrackers.
To address the growing health concerns related to air pollution, a pollution clinic was established at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in October 2023. The clinic not only caters to respiratory, skin, and eye issues but also includes psychiatrists to address the mental health aspects of pollution-related illnesses. Dr. Amit Suri, the head of the clinic, emphasized the importance of bringing all specialists under one roof to provide holistic care to patients.
The clinic’s senior resident psychiatrist, Priyanka, highlighted the impact of pollution on mental health, particularly in children and the elderly. She explained that fine particulate matter like PM2.5 can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, leading to inflammation and chemical changes in the brain. Children may experience impaired neurodevelopmental growth, while the elderly may face cognitive decline, resulting in memory issues and loneliness.
Recent research by Uttara Balakrishnan from the American Institute for Research also delves into the causal link between air pollution and mental health in India. The study found that air pollution exposure in one year significantly worsened mental health in the following year, indicating a pressing need for more research in this area.
As Delhi grapples with the mental health impacts of air pollution, experts like Dr. Pallavi Rajhans stress the importance of conducting further studies to understand the correlation better. The government has also recognized mental health concerns in its reports on air pollution, recommending measures like staying active and seeking therapy to combat feelings of sadness and cognitive difficulties.
Aparna Aggarwal, a concerned parent in Delhi, shares her distress over her children’s deteriorating health due to air pollution. With her kids experiencing breathing issues, irritability, and mood swings, she feels helpless and worried about their future. While temporary relief comes with improved air quality and lifted restrictions, the long-term effects of pollution on her children’s health remain a cause for concern.
In conclusion, the pervasive impact of air pollution on physical and mental health in Delhi underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address this pressing issue. From healthcare interventions to public awareness campaigns, collaborative efforts are essential to safeguard the well-being of the city’s residents and mitigate the adverse effects of pollution on mental health.
