Can poor AQI impact your stress levels and worsen mental health?

An expert mentioned that one should avoid going on early morning walks, especially during the winter season.

By: Lifestyle Desk
New Delhi | Updated: October 27, 2024 04:57 PM IST

Here's how poor air quality can impact your mental health (PTI)

Winter months bring with them the characteristic chill in the air, perfect for morning walks and outdoor picnics. But, smog and smoke in the air drive a hard bargain when it comes to lung health. As metropolitan cities in India threaten to reach abysmally high levels on the air quality index, find out how it can stand to affect your mental health and stress levels.

Air pollution: A silent threat to both body and mind

Dr Shaunak Ajinkya, consultant psychiatrist, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, said poor AQI can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory problems that can indirectly affect mental health and lead to anxiety and depression. In fact, he shared that it’s an inversely proportional loop, indicating that anxiety and depression may also be a contributing factor in heart and lung problems.

Air pollution can also trigger inflammation within the body, impacting brain chemistry. Neuroinflammation—a subtle form of brain inflammation — disrupts the production of serotonin and other mood-regulating neurotransmitters. Studies also show long-term exposure to pollution raises the risk of neurodegenerative disorders, with depression potentially signaling an early warning. Younger and older populations are especially vulnerable.

Dr Sulaiman Ladhani, pulmonologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said that the constant worrying about rising levels of pollution can add to one’s stress and anxiety. Prolonged exposure to air pollution can even heighten the risk of dementia and early-onset Alzheimer’s. With poor air quality often disrupting sleep, chronic fatigue and irritability become more common. He suggested avoiding stepping out from the house when pollution levels are at a peak and making sure to engage in regular physical activity indoors.

Poor AQI can lead to cardiovascular and respiratory problems that can indirectly affect mental health (File Photo).

What can you do to keep yourself cheerful amidst rising pollution levels?

Dr Ajinkya suggested a lifestyle anchored in healthy routines, from regular sleep schedules to a balanced diet low in processed foods.

While he advised exercising regularly, he mentioned that one should avoid going on early morning walks, especially during the winter season. “Wearing a mask can help combat the negative effects of air pollution, and if you must, then try to go for walks during the late evening,” he said.

Relaxation techniques—like deep breathing exercises, yoga, pranayama, and meditation—can also support resilience against the mental impacts of pollution. He also forbade indulging in addictions such as smoking, vaping and drinking as they may lower the immunity.