Earth Day, the Environment and Improving Your Mental Health
Posted on: April 20th, 2014
Earth Day, April 22nd, and its emphasis on the environment, brings to mind an interesting topic that is getting more attention in the area of mental health. There is a growing body of research about how the environment, and its accompanying stressors, affects a person’s mental well-being. Specifically, how the foods we eat, where we live and the quality of our surroundings can impact our well-being. This makes the environment an important issue year-round, not just a talking point on Earth Day.
Food
While it is well known that pesticides can have harmful effects on the environment, there is also mounting evidence that children exposed to pesticides can develop neurodevelopmental issues such as hyperactivity, attention-deficit disorder, and other behavioral challenges. Eating organic and pesticide-free food is likely a wise choice while we wait for further consensus from researchers. This choice has benefits for the environment and your well-being.
Pollution and Toxic Environments
Obviously, pollutants and toxins in the environment impact our health negatively. In the Journal of Urban Health article, The Built Environment and Mental Health, G. W. Evans cites loud noise from airports, odors in the environment and insufficient daylight as contributing factors to mental health issues such as depression, aggressive behavior and increased psychological stress. Here again, it appears that children are more vulnerable. Studies have found that children in housing projects which are unclean, noisy and dangerous suffer from more mental health issues than their peers.
Nature
On a positive note, research supports that access to nature improves one’s mental well-being, by reducing stress and counteracting fatigue. Spending time in nature, or even having a view of nature outside your window is beneficial. If you don’t have regular access to nature, consider bringing plants and flowers into your home. And in keeping with the spirit of Earth Day, you could volunteer to maintain nearby parks as a way of contributing to the well-being of your community.
So, this Earth Day, take some time to think about a few small changes you can make to improve your environment, and as a result, your well-being. However, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or stress Maureen Kritzer-Lange Psychotherapy can offer relief. Contact us via email at info@maureenkritzerlange.com, or call (973) 313-1691.
Leave a Reply