Shocking Facts About Air Pollution And The Impact Of Picu Depression

JAKARTA - Air pollution not only has an impact on the respiratory system and physical health, but also has a serious influence on mental health. Long-term exposure to polluted air is now associated with an increased risk of psychological disorders, one of which is depression.

Depression is a mental condition characterized by deep feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities that are usually enjoyed. Recent studies show that poor air quality can be one of the triggers for worsening these conditions.

A collaborative study conducted by Harbin Medical University and Cranfield University revealed a significant relationship between exposure to air pollution for a long time with increased chance of depression.

The study, published in the journal Environmental Science and Ecotechnology, used data from Chinese citizens over 45 years old, which was monitored for seven years. The purpose of the research is to identify the impact of six types of air pollutants on the psychological condition of respondents.

In the results, the researchers found that sulfur dioxide (SO2) has the strongest connection with an increased risk of depression. In addition, other pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO) and fine microparticles (PM2.5) also show a major contribution to the deteriorating mental health.

The findings indicate that a combined exposure from several air pollutants can exacerbate the risk of mental disorders. The mechanism proposed by scientists includes biological processes such as oxidative stress and inflammation in the central nervous system. This effect is thought to be able to spread through several pathways, including blood flow, facial sensory nerve (trigeminal), or even a smell system.

Although the results are quite strong, the researchers say further studies are still needed to understand thoroughly how air pollution affects the brain and the human mood.

According to the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia, depression is a mood disorder that interferes with the way people think, feel, and behave. Symptoms can include feelings of helplessness, loss of life spirit, and the emergence of negative thoughts about oneself or the future.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also emphasizes depression is not just a temporary mood change, but a condition that lasts at least two weeks and can interfere with a person's daily function. Other symptoms that may arise include sleep disorders, decreased appetite, easy fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Depression itself is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Therefore, prevention efforts can be done by managing stress, fostering healthy social relationships, and maintaining physical and mental fitness.

One of the simple but effective steps recommended by experts is to regularly walk at least 7,000 steps a day, which has proven to be able to improve overall mental health.