Living close to oil and gas development sites while trying to conceive may have a negative impact on mental health, a recent study suggests. People residing within about six miles of active oil and gas operations were found to have a higher likelihood of experiencing moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms compared to those living farther away, between 12 to 31 miles. Additionally, individuals living just 1.25 miles away from oil and gas sites reported increased perceived stress levels, with higher production intensities correlating with elevated stress levels.
The oil and gas industry’s rapid expansion across North America has increasingly been associated with various physical and mental health concerns before and after pregnancy, including preterm birth, birth defects, and psychological stress.
The recent research led by Boston University School of Public Health (BUSPH) reveals that even before pregnancy, individuals attempting to conceive and residing near oil and gas activities face a heightened risk of developing adverse mental health outcomes. Conducted using data from participants in the Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) based at BUSPH and published in the American Journal of Public Health, the study sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by individuals living in proximity to oil and gas development.
This study highlights the importance of understanding the impacts of fossil fuel development on mental health, particularly during the preconception phase, which has received limited attention compared to other stages of the pregnancy process. Addressing potential mental health hazards, such as those associated with oil and gas activities, is crucial for supporting a healthy pregnancy journey.
The analysis, conducted by Dr. Mary Willis and her team, involved assessing mental health survey responses and data on oil and gas well locations in the US and Canada. The study focused on PRESTO participants with household incomes below $50,000, considering those who may lack the financial means to relocate away from oil and gas activities.
By evaluating participants’ mental health status through clinical questions, the researchers were able to identify links between proximity to oil and gas developments and mental wellbeing indicators among the study cohort. The economic fluctuations associated with oil and gas operations, characterized by “boom and bust” cycles, were found to contribute to heightened stress levels in nearby communities.
Notably, the study revealed that elevated stress and depressive symptoms were reported by participants living beyond the minimum distances required by some states to protect residents in homes, schools, and healthcare facilities from oil and gas activities. While the study associates poor mental health outcomes with living approximately six miles from oil and gas sites, certain states have setback regulations allowing activities as close as 200 feet to residential areas.
These findings underscore the importance of considering the less visible health impacts of resource extraction in local communities. The researchers hope that this new insight will inform regulatory measures aimed at establishing health-protective setback distances in residential areas.
