Living in a city seems inevitable in today’s world. After all, that’s where all the lucrative work/ business opportunities, ‘happening’ party scenes and the trappings of modern life are found. Many young people dread living in the countryside because there’s no action. But living in cities has a negative effect on human health. The bigger the city, the greater the effects.
Noise
Noise pollution from honking cars, construction sites, booming music and other sources is not only irritating, but also reduces one’s attention span. Irritation by noise causes negative moods and headaches. That’s why retreats in nature are so popular- to get away from noise.
Polluted Air
Exhaust fumes, dust, smoke from factories and other airborne irritants cause respiratory diseases such as asthma. They have also been linked to occurrence of strokes and heart disease.
Mood Disorders & Anxiety
All the pressure from city living increases one’s risk of suffering from mood disorders such as schizophrenia. Research carried out by Jens Pruessner and colleagues at the Central Institute of Mental Health in Mannheim reported a 21% increase in anxiety disorders, a 39% increase in mood disorders and a doubled risk of schizophrenia in city dwellers.
Being immersed in a sea of people is interpreted by the brain as a lack of control, be it consciously or subconsciously, which increases anxiety. Being in a big city with no friends or family can trigger feelings of isolation and loneliness despite being surrounded by many people. Living in a small, crowded apartment induces feelings of claustrophobia.
Insomnia
After a long day dealing with noise, traffic, polluted air, congestion and busy schedules, getting a good night’s rest doesn’t come easy. Your body and mind are uptight so you find yourself staying up longer. Yet sleep is important for the body to rejuvenate and repair. Insomnia leads to further stress.
Infectious Diseases
Communicable diseases spread faster in crowded cities as compared to less crowded areas. Pathogens spread through the air and surfaces touched by infected people. If you commute on public transport, you’re more susceptible to such infections.
