Exposure to air pollution, noise pollution, and certain chemicals is associated with an increased risk of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and other mental disorders, according to a new report published by the European Environment Agency (EEA).

The report compiles the available scientific evidence on the relationship between pollution and mental health and emphasizes that, while further research is needed to establish a definitive causal link, studies show a significant correlation.

Over the past 25 years, Europe has experienced a notable increase in the prevalence and incidence of mental disorders. In 2023, these disorders represented the sixth largest burden of disease in the European Union and were the eighth leading cause of death.

While mental disorders have a multifactorial origin—including genetic, social, economic, psychological, and lifestyle factors—pollution is emerging as an additional contributing factor that deserves attention in public policy.

Air Pollution: Impact from Early Stages

The report highlights that exposure to air pollution during critical phases of brain development—such as gestation, infancy, and early adolescence—is associated with structural and functional changes in the brain.

Likewise, prolonged exposure to high levels of pollutants such as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) is linked to a higher prevalence or risk of developing depression. Short-term exposure spikes, meanwhile, are associated with a worsening of schizophrenia symptoms.

Environmental Noise: Cumulative Risks

Road traffic noise also shows correlations with mental health. According to the report, an increase in road noise is associated with a 3% increase in the risk of depression and a 2% increase in the risk of anxiety.

Furthermore, exposure to environmental noise is linked to a higher prevalence of behavioral problems in childhood, with effects on psychological well-being. In the case of railway noise, a significant 2.2% increase in suicide rates is observed for every 10-decibel (dB) increase. A meta-analysis cited in the document also identifies a 12% increase in the risk of depression for every 10 dB increase in the Lden indicator associated with aircraft noise.

Chemicals: Prenatal Exposure and Vulnerability

Among the substances analyzed, prenatal or childhood exposure to lead (Pb) is associated with both depression and schizophrenia. Exposure to secondhand smoke shows a consistent relationship with both disorders, especially in vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.

Likewise, several studies have found an association between prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and the onset of depression and anxiety during childhood.

One Health Approach

Although the EEA emphasizes the need for further research to confirm causal relationships, it believes that current evidence reinforces the urgency of fully implementing European environmental legislation and making progress in reducing exposure to pollution.

The report also supports the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. In this context, not only is reducing emissions and pollutants key, but also promoting nature-based solutions.

Expanding access to green and blue spaces—including activities in aquatic environments—as well as nature-based therapies such as gardening, exercising in natural settings, and forest bathing, have demonstrated beneficial effects on mental health.

The EEA concludes that meeting the targets of the EU Zero Pollution Action Plan, by reducing pollution and expanding access to nature, could contribute to improving the mental well-being of millions of people in Europe.