Environment Archives

Aug 26

Could the herbicide glyphosate be affecting our mental health?

Could the herbicide glyphosate be affecting our mental health? Glyphosate is the most commonly used herbicide in agriculture (e.g., found in Roundup®). Its widespread use is generating significant controversy particularly due to its reported carcinogenic effect. Glyphosate-based herbicides have also been shown to induce neurobehavioural impairments [1]. In an animal study, sub-chronic and chronic exposure […]

Jun 21

Can exposure to electromagnetic fields affect sleep and mental health?

Can exposure to electromagnetic fields affect sleep and mental health? Extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields (ELF-EMF) are produced by both natural and artificial sources. Naturally occurring ELF-EMF are associated with atmospheric processes such as ionospheric currents, thunderstorms, and lightning. However, artificial sources are the most dominant sources of ELF-EMF and are usually associated […]

Mar 25

Integrative Treatments for Depression: A review of the evidence

Integrative Treatments for Depression: A Review of the Evidence The most popular treatments for depression include psychological and pharmacological treatments. In terms of psychological therapies, the most commonly-used form is cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) while the most popular antidepressants are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac® (fluoxetine), Zoloft® (sertraline) and Lexapro® (escitalopram). While […]

Dec 27

Important factors associated with a full recovery from depression

Important factors associated with a full recovery from depression Although there are effective treatments for depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders, research confirms that a significant portion of people continue to suffer from ongoing symptoms. In relation to depression, the bulk of research suggests that approximately 30% of people experience full remission after psychological/ pharmacological treatment, […]

Nov 14

Are You Always Stressed?

Are You Always Stressed? In today’s society, overflowing with regular demands and pressures, stress is commonplace. While stress can be helpful (termed eustress), if it is too high or remains elevated for too long it can have detrimental effects throughout the whole body. Excess stress levels can damage every part of the body including the […]

Apr 26

The relationship between vitamin D and depression

The Relationship Between Vitamin D and Depression Although further research on the relationship between vitamin D and depression is required, there are now a number of studies showing that vitamin D is important for both the prevention and treatment of mental illnesses such as depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), anxiety disorders and schizophrenia. A selection of […]

Apr 22

Green / Blue Spaces and Mental Health

Can Spending Time Outdoors Improve Mental Health? Approximately half of the world’s population live in cities and that is expected to increase in the coming years [1]. Despite the benefits of urban living (development of social networks, access to services, etc.), there are several aspects that may have a detrimental effect on a person’s health, […]