Air pollution linked to increased suicide risk, new study finds

A recent study has revealed new consequences of air pollution, indicating that it may increase the risk of suicide and suicidal thoughts.

The study added that this calls for greater efforts to combat environmental pollution and to consider it in mental health strategies, according to Russia Today.

The research was conducted by a team from Queen's University Belfast, focusing on how air, noise, light, and water pollution affect the risk of suicide and suicidal behavior.

The researchers noted that their findings suggest environmental pollution should be considered in suicide prevention strategies. The results led them to emphasize the need to recognize environmental impacts as modifiable risk factors in suicide prevention efforts.

However, experts cautioned against overinterpreting these results, noting that the causes of suicide are complex and influenced by multiple factors. They stressed the importance of not overlooking the environments we live in, especially inequalities in living conditions.

The researchers also confirmed a link between certain air pollutants and a slight increase in suicidal behavior, but did not prove that pollution itself causes suicidal thoughts or attempts. Instead, it is associated with other influential factors such as poverty, urban living, physical health, and housing.