Exploring the psychological impacts of air contamination: A cross-national study

This research examines the detrimental effects of air pollution on mental well-being across different countries, exploring whether air pollution acts as a causal factor in deteriorating mental health. The findings demonstrate that heightened air pollution levels are correlated with an increase in mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, primarily through factors like healthcare costs, obesity, and employment instability. The impact is notably more severe in developing countries and colder regions. The study also explores gender differences, revealing that women in countries with higher female populations experience a stronger mental health deterioration linked to air pollution. These results provide vital insights for policy frameworks aimed at reducing air pollution and improving public mental health.