Is driving speed limit increasing your anxiety? Study shows what loud noises can do | Health

The study comes at a time when countries are working to lower speed limits. Although there are safety concerns, it can have great benefits for our minds and bodies. People living in cities are exposed to so much man-made noise all day long that they can hardly enjoy the bliss of nature’s music. Lowering speed limits reduces traffic noise and brings people closer to nature’s symphony.

A study published in PLOS ONE highlights the benefits of listening to natural sounds. Research shows it can help reduce anxiety and stress. However, when traffic increases, mechanical noise drowns out the natural music, making it less effective.

Research results:

This study was conducted on 68 college students who were exposed to different types of sounds to understand how it affected their anxiety and stress levels. The sounds were pure natural sounds (including bird calls), natural sounds mixed with 20 mph traffic noise, and natural sounds mixed with 40 mph traffic noise. Also read | Relationship between traffic noise and tinnitus risk: study

Researchers found that pure natural sounds minimized stress and anxiety levels, while natural sounds mixed with 20 mph traffic noise reduced the impact on mental health but remained calming. We observed that it has a positive effect. Exposure to nature sounds and 40 mph traffic noise was recorded to have the highest levels of stress and anxiety.

green spaces need to be protected

This study highlights the need to acoustically protect green spaces. Planting trees can have significant health benefits, but nearby traffic noise can undermine the positive effects of green space on mental health. It has been observed that people who suffer from anxiety are more susceptible to the negative effects of loud noises. Reducing traffic noise in cities can help improve the mental health of people with anxiety. Also read | Air pollution, road traffic noise may increase risk of heart failure: 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 regarding a medical condition.