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Daily travel and traffic go hand in hand. For many people, it is a routine part of life, whether it’s commuting to work, school, or any other commitments. While travel may seem like a necessary task, it can have a significant impact on mental health. A new study reveals that traffic can increase stress and anxiety, contributing to higher levels of depression and anxiety.
We all have faced stress while commuting and traffic just makes it worse. However, a new report reveals that manmade noises from horns in traffic can lead to stress and anxiety. It explores the association between man-made sounds and increased mental health issues.
Study On How Traffic Affects Mental Health
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Scientists at the University of the West of England found that man-made sounds, such as traffic noise, are linked to higher stress and anxiety, according to their study in PLOS One. The study involved around 70 people who watched a one-minute video designed to cause stress. They then rated their mood, including stress, anxiety, and pleasure levels.
After this, they listened to a three-minute audio clip and rated their feelings again. Each person did this three times, responding to different sounds after watching the video. Participants' stress and anxiety increased when 20 mph traffic sounds were added and went up even more with 40 mph traffic sounds. Listening to natural sounds alone led to the lowest levels of stress and anxiety, while the highest levels were reported with sounds of 40 mph traffic.
The researchers suggest that lowering traffic speeds in cities could improve health and well-being, not just by making streets safer but also by protecting natural sounds. They noted that natural sounds can help lower stress and anxiety, but man-made noises like traffic can block these benefits.
Reducing traffic speeds in cities is an important way to help people enjoy the positive effects of nature on their health. The study also points out how urban growth can harm the environment and encourages policymakers to include green spaces in cities to improve people's mental and physical health.
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Tips To Manage Stress In Traffic
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Driving on the road comes with the task of tackling obstacles as well as mental well-being. While you can always be focused on your driving skills, you never know how another driver might take a turn. However, below are a few points to keep in mind while planning your commute.
- Plan ahead and leave early to avoid the stress of rushing. Keeping extra time in hand can help you stay relaxed even if there are delays.
- Use traffic apps to stay informed about the live traffic updates to find the best route and avoid unexpected jams.
- When you feel stressed, take slow, deep breaths to help calm your mind and body.
- Tune up to your favourite playlist, audiobooks, or calming podcasts to shift your focus and improve your mood.
- Adjust your car seat, temperature, and posture to stay comfortable while driving, Make the drive as comfortable as possible.
According to Nanda Botadkar, ICF InnerMost Shift Coach, (as per her LinkedIn), the daily commute is not just as a stressor but as an untapped opportunity for self-mastery. She gave a few tips to counter the same.
"Traffic, with all its unpredictability, can either drain your energy or become a powerful classroom. It’s where you can practice patience, develop emotional agility, and turn idle time into a space for growth—whether through mindful breathing, reflecting on your goals, or fueling your mind with inspiring content. The real journey isn’t just through the traffic; it’s in how you choose to navigate your mindset amidst the chaos,” she added
Conclusion
With all that being said, daily travel and traffic are unavoidable parts of modern life. Their impact on mental health cannot be overlooked. Studies show that traffic noise increases stress and anxiety, while natural sounds can help reduce these effects. Addressing this issue requires a new approach. This can be improving urban planning by incorporating green spaces and reducing traffic speeds.