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The Effects of Poor Indoor Air on Mental Health

Did you know that air quality in your indoor spaces can affect your physical and mental health? While poor indoor air quality can cause respiratory problems, fatigue, and headaches, its effect on mental health is often overlooked.

 

So how does poor indoor air quality affect mental well-being, and what can be done to improve it?

Mental Health Problems

Poor quality air inside your home can cause anxiety, stress, and depression. Studies show that people frequently exposed to poor-quality indoor air are most likely to develop anxiety, stress, and depression. It's thought that poor-quality air can change levels of hormones and neurotransmitters inside the brain that regulate behavior and mood.

Decreased Cognitive Function

Cognitive function can reduce when there's exposure to poor indoor air quality. When people are exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), molds, and other indoor pollutants, it can negatively affect memory and attention. It is particularly concerning for children as exposure to these indoor pollutants can have long-term impacts on cognitive development.

Effect on People with Pre-existing Mental Health Conditions

Those with pre-existing mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression are at a higher risk of increased symptoms when exposed to poor-quality indoor air. Your loved one or other with bipolar disorder may experience behavior and mood changes when they are in rooms with polluted air.

Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality

  • Improve Ventilation: Better ventilation is vital in reducing pollutants in indoor spaces and improving air quality. But how do you improve the air quality at a home, garage, and other indoor spaces?

 

The indoor air quality improves when you use air purifiers, such as Aerus mid-range blaster, exhaust fans, and opening windows. In addition, keep your indoor spaces clean and free of allergens like mold and dust. Regularly maintain and clean the HVAC systems so that it works effectively to improve your indoor air quality.

 

  • Reduce Use of Chemicals: Some cleaning products at home may contain harsh chemicals that leak into your air. Avoid these products and opt for safer alternatives with natural ingredients and keep off synthetic fragrances such as scented candles and air fresheners. These products can contain toxic chemicals that spoil your home or office air quality.

 

  • Be Mindful of Materials Used in the Decoration and Construction of Indoor Spaces: The materials used in indoor spaces' decoration and construction can significantly affect air quality. For example, the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in some flooring and furniture can release into the air inside your home over time. To avoid this, choose alternative products such as natural fiber rugs and low-VOC products.

 

The impact of poor indoor air quality on physical and mental health can be substantial and shouldn't be ignored. Work to improve the ventilation of your indoor spaces, minimize the use of chemicals, and purchase products with low-VOCs.

 

Aerus air purifier products are made with your health in mind. Our Aerus Mid-Range Blaster effectively removes various indoor pollutants, including Covid-19 viral particles. Contact us today and make your indoor spaces a healthy place to live in.