Toxic Silence: The Mental Health Impact of Chronic Industrial Exposure in Adolescents

Andreas Georgiou¹, Sophie Turner², Mei Huang³, Yun Zhao⁴

Abstract

Background:
In many industrial zones, adolescents reside near factories emitting chronic levels of noise, chemical fumes, and heavy metals. While physical health consequences have been documented, the psychological burden of such long-term exposure remains largely invisible.

Objective:
To examine the association between proximity to industrial zones and mental health outcomes among adolescents, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbance.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 728 adolescents aged 12–18 living within 5 kilometers of three major industrial hubs in southern China. Participants completed validated mental health screening tools (PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, and PSQI for sleep quality). Blood and hair samples were collected to measure lead and cadmium levels. Air quality data (PM2.5, SO₂) were obtained from monitoring stations over the preceding 12 months. A control group (n=312) resided ≥20 km away from any industrial zone.

Results:
Adolescents in exposed zones had significantly higher rates of moderate-to-severe anxiety (26.3% vs. 10.9%, p < 0.001) and depression (21.8% vs. 8.1%, p < 0.001). Elevated blood lead (>5 µg/dL) was found in 18.7% of exposed participants vs. 4.6% in controls. Hair cadmium levels were 2.4× higher on average in the exposed group (p < 0.001). Proximity to industrial zone (<2 km) was independently associated with poor sleep scores (OR: 2.8, 95% CI: 1.9–4.0).

Conclusion:
Adolescents exposed to chronic industrial pollution may silently bear a significant psychological toll. Beyond environmental regulation, mental health screening and support programs should be integrated into health services for communities near industrial developments.