Mental health is just as important as, if not more important than, our physical health. And what many do not realize is just how much the quality of the indoor air that they breathe impacts their mental health. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans spend about 90% of their time indoors. The EPA also noted that the concentrations of some pollutants are two to five times higher indoors than outdoors and that many who are most at risk of being affected by those pollutants—those who are young, are elderly or have respiratory or cardiovascular disease—tend to also be the same types of people who spend even more time indoors.
Impact of Poor Indoor Air Quality on Mental Health
There are several ways in which a home or business’ indoor air can negatively impact a person’s mental health and otherwise. Examples include causing someone to struggle to concentrate, and to experience brain fog, headaches, dizziness, increased mental and physical fatigue, and greater difficulties with depression and anxiety.
What Is Polluting Our Indoor Air?
The most common pollutants and contaminants that reduce the quality of our indoor air include the following:
- Carbon monoxide
- Nitrogen dioxide
- Pesticides
- Mold
- Dust
- Tobacco smoke
- Asbestos
- Lead
What Can Improve Indoor Air Quality?
Fortunately, indoor air quality can be improved in a number of ways.
- Efficient filters can catch dust, pollen and other particulates, reducing the amount of them in the air that you breathe.
- Quality ventilation systems can help bring fresh outside air into a home; this reduces contaminants. Also keep in mind that simply opening doors and windows can do a lot to help improve indoor air quality, assuming that it is not a high-pollution day outside.
- Using an air purifier can remove allergens and pollutants.
- Utilizing a dehumidifier when interior humidity is high helps improve indoor air quality by reducing mold and mildew growth and controlling dust mites.
- Regularly maintaining an HVAC unit can reduce the possibility of clogged coils and dirty filters contributing to polluted indoor air.
- Cleaning a living or working space can do a lot to improve indoor air quality as well. It’s recommended that vacuuming, dusting, and otherwise cleaning surfaces be done on a regular basis.
- Replacing a gas stove with an electric one can also help as the former can release carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and fine particles into the air. In any case, ensure that the kitchen is ventilated when cooking.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, poor indoor air quality can affect a person’s mental health. There are several ways to improve that air, ranging from using filters and purifiers to airing out and regularly cleaning the building. If you have concerns or require indoor air quality services, contact Crocker Refrigeration Heating and Air in Santa Barbara, CA.