The effect of environmental factors on mental health in Nova Scotia

Project Summary

Nova Scotia has some of the highest rates of mental health disorders in Canada, but the causes remain unclear. While biological predisposition plays a role, environmental factors, like poor air quality and limited greenspace are linked to increased mental health risks. Chronic metal exposure (e.g., arsenic from naturally high deposits in soil and drinking water), may impact mental health. However, this link is not well understood. Disadvantaged, low-income communities often experience greater pollution exposure, potentially facing higher mental health burdens than wealthier areas. This PhD research aims to disentangle the relationships between environmental stressors, including metals like arsenic, and mental health outcomes in Nova Scotia. Analyzing regional longitudinal data and bio-samples, the study seeks to understand disparities, identify disease mechanisms, and explore interventions to mitigate arsenic exposure and reduce mental health inequalities in Atlantic Canada.