Environmental Pollution & Chronic Depression

Scientists have begun to focus on environmental factors---such as pollution, living conditions and food additives and preservatives---as major potential determinants of health and safety. The absorption of toxins from the atmosphere and from foods has been linked to a number of major health issues including birth defects and cancer. Over time, fears about industrial chemicals and agricultural processes, as well as atmospheric pollution, have driven demands for more environmental protection and organic agriculture. Research is still inconclusive, but a growing body of evidence has found potential links between environmental hazards and mental health issues such as chronic depression.

Electrical Pollution

• Some evidence has been found of a connection between radio waves and mood disorders.

  People are exposed every day to radio waves generated by electronics and home appliances. These radio waves---which are relatively difficult to detect---are sometimes called "electrical pollution," and some scientists believe they might have a negative effect on health. While some radiation has been linked to cancers, some research suggests that radio waves may contribute to mental illness such as depression. The exact mechanism of this connection is still largely unknown and further study is necessary to establish firm evidence of a connection.

Pesticides

• The use of pesticides is widespread in agriculture and might be linked to chronic depression.

  Pesticides---chemicals that kill crop-damaging insects---are nearly ubiquitous in everyday life, especially if certain fruits are eaten without being washed. They are common in non-agricultural uses, including the elimination of insects from the home. The effects of pesticides on humans, especially over the long term, have not been determined. Some studies have found a relationship between pesticide exposure---especially in high quantities---and depression. Other work has discovered that small exposures may contribute to mood disorders as well, as higher rates of depression have been found even among the family members of pesticide applicators.

Solvents

• Many household cleaners and cosmetics use solvents.

  Solvents are chemicals that break down other chemicals so they can dissolve. Paint thinner is an example. These, too, are commonly found around the home, as many are used in household cleaners and cosmetics. While research on the health effects of solvents is still largely emerging, some studies have found that prolonged exposure to these chemicals is more likely to result in depression, according to clinical criteria. Solvents, especially in high concentrations, are fairly easy to avoid. But cosmetics, hygiene products and household cleaners are much more common.

Carbon Monoxide

• Carbon monoxide, a common feature of car exhaust, might be a factor in long-term depression.

  Often, people have heard that carbon monoxide, or CO, in large quantities can be poisonous. Some even choose to install carbon monoxide detectors in their homes, as CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can be very dangerous. Most carbon monoxide exposure is not fatal, though, as it occurs in everyday contexts: CO is found in car exhaust, furnace emissions and other everyday exposures. Chronic inhalation of small amounts of CO, like those found in factories, has been linked with chronic depression, and acute CO poisoning often manifests with depression-like symptoms.

Limiting Your Exposure

• Given that pollution is so common, limiting exposure poses a challenge. Some exposures, such as vehicle exhaust and radio waves---are unlikely to be removed without wide-scale actions. Exposure to pesticides and solvents, however, may be more easily avoided. Most foods certified as organic are made without the use of chemical pesticides. Additionally, the solvents in cosmetics and household cleaners might be avoided by carefully reading ingredient labels. Installing a carbon monoxide detector in the home will alert you to unacceptable carbon monoxide levels.