Air pollution and mental health research reveals significant psychological impacts of environmental pollutants that extend far beyond physical health effects. Studies demonstrate connections between air pollution exposure and increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, particularly in urban populations. The evidence suggests that pollutants may directly affect brain chemistry whilst also contributing to mental health impacts through chronic stress and inflammation. Explore the growing research documenting how air quality affects psychological wellbeing and what this means for mental healthcare and urban planning.