Throughout history, urbanization has defined human civilizations and led to the progress of society. Although urbanization has long been associated with technological advancement or economic development, it has negatively impacted mental and physical health in recent years. As cities grow more bustling, factors such as pollution and road traffic can impact the quality of life.
Urban Stressors
Living in cities introduces a variety of stressors due to the fast-paced lifestyle people maintain. Exposure to pollution and noise, overcrowding, and poor sanitation are just some of the hazards. Commuting in congested traffic or navigating crowded public transportation systems can contribute to chronic stress and anxiety. Moreover, the anonymity of urban life can lead to feelings of loneliness and disconnection despite being surrounded by people. Undernutrition and overnutrition are also other predicaments relating to the socioeconomic status of citizens and urbanization. People living in cities lack space, and the conditions do not require them to move as much. The risk of obesity increases as food intake increases more than output, and dietary patterns in urban areas have a higher chance of including large portions of sugar and fats.
Social Disconnection and Mental Health
Although cities contain dense populations, individuals often feel more isolated and detached. The competitive nature of urban economies and lifestyles can lead to anxiety, high levels of stress, burnout, and other mental health issues. The anonymity of urban life and the transient nature of relationships can make it challenging to form meaningful connections. Lack of social support networks increases the risk of depression and other mental health problems, highlighting the importance of fostering community and belonging in urban settings.
Economic Inequalities
Urbanization often emphasizes economic disparities, and this socioeconomic divide can have profound implications for mental health. Residents of low-income urban areas may face greater exposure to crime, violence, and inadequate healthcare services, leading to heightened levels of stress and trauma. The pressure to succeed in competitive urban environments can also contribute to financial stress and feelings of inadequacy. People living in urban poverty also may live in areas with subpar sanitation, environmental hazards like pests, or unstable housing. Beyond access to healthcare and environmental factors, social determinants such as education, employment, and social support networks significantly influence the health outcomes of low-income urban populations. Limited educational and employment opportunities can contribute to financial instability and stress, while social isolation and lack of social support can exacerbate mental health issues.
Reference List
Kuddus, M.A., Tynan, E. and McBryde, E. (2020). Urbanization: a Problem for the Rich and the poor? Public Health Reviews, [online] 41(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s40985-019-0116-0.
World Health Organization (2021). Urban health. [online] www.who.int. Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/urban-health.
Zhang, Z., Zhao, M., Zhang, Y. and Feng, Y. (2023). How does urbanization affect public health? New evidence from 175 countries worldwide. Frontiers in Public Health, 10. doi:https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.1096964.
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