Are driving speed limits increasing your anxiety? Study shows what loud noises can do

Nature can heal our mental health, but only if it is not drowned out by the noise of traffic. According to a recent study led by Lia RV Gilmour of the University of the West of England, natural sounds can have a soothing effect on our brains, but only when we are quiet enough for the sounds to reach us. Read this also Traffic noise can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack, diabetes, stroke: Research

The study comes at a time when countries are working to lower speed limits. Although it comes with safety concerns, it can have significant benefits for our mind and body. Urban residents are bombarded with so much artificial noise throughout the day that it becomes difficult for them to enjoy the music of nature. Lowering speed limits can reduce traffic noise, allowing people to get closer to the musicality of nature.

The study published in PLOS One emphasizes the benefits of listening to natural sounds. According to studies, it helps reduce anxiety and stress. However, when traffic increases, mechanical noise drowns out the natural music, diminishing the effect.

Study findings:

The study was conducted on 68 university students who were exposed to a variety of sounds to understand how it affected their anxiety and stress levels. The sounds were – pure natural sounds (including birdsong), natural sounds mixed with 20 mph traffic noise, and natural sounds mixed with 40 mph traffic noise. Read this also Association between traffic noise and tinnitus risk: research

The researchers observed that with pure natural sounds, stress and anxiety levels were recorded to be minimal, while natural sounds mixed with 20 mph traffic noise showed less impact on mental health, but still helped to calm the mind. of. When exposed to natural sounds along with 40 mph traffic noise, stress and anxiety levels were recorded at their maximum.

Green spaces need to be preserved

The study emphasizes the need for acoustic protection of green spaces. While planting trees can have significant health benefits, nearby traffic noise can impair the positive effects of green spaces on mental health. It has been observed that people suffering from anxiety are more prone to the negative effects of loud noises. Reducing urban traffic noise can help people with anxiety achieve better mental health. Read this also Air pollution, road traffic noise may increase heart failure risk: Study

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.