From: Melissa Nerino

To: Mark Lorando, Editor-in-Chief for The Times-Picayune

April 2, 2017

Subject: Could Pollution Cause Depression? The APA Reports

Dear Mr. Lorando,

Tracking the worldwide impact of climate change can be depressing, but a recent report
by the American Psychological Association shows that its even worse than we thought.
Most climate change reports focus on environmental and physical effects of climate
change, but studies now show that climate change influences mental health as well. The APA
reports that numerous harmful mental health trends can be related to natural disasters and poor
environmental conditions. New Orleans could benefit from this article, as it has often been hit by
the devastating effects of severe weather. Additionally, the varied community groups that are
most affected by mental health are strong around New Orleans.
Short-term effects from severe weather can result in shock and trauma, as well as
increased stress, anger, and terror. Long-term results can cause depression, anxiety, and even
PTSD. The report notes that trends such as droughts or pollution affect well-being and
infrastructure. In turn, individuals and families may find that their quality of life diminishes.
Other mental health issues directly link to physical concerns. Increased stress levels,
anxiety, and other problems can weaken immune systems, and can lead to self-harm, substance
abuse, and a wide spectrum of anxiety disorders which affect overall wellbeing.
The report also highlights community levels. Increased stress levels and long-term
changes cause communities to fracture. Hostility, aggression, and loss of social identity all
increase when communities are affected through climate change. Unfortunately, certain groups
are more susceptible, particularly agricultural, minority, and indigenous communities, which
exist in the greater New Orleans area.
The report does note numerous ways to fight these trends. Many recommendations
combine green initiatives with ones that promote positive lifestyle choices. An attached
infographic includes some of these choices, as well as resources and statistics relevant to New
Orleans residents.
I hope you will consider covering this topic for The Times-Picayune and I look forward to
hearing back from you.
Melissa Nerino
mnerino@purdue.edu