Environmental noise and mental health: Five year review and future directions

Since the previous review of Stansfeld and Lercher (2003) there has been modest but continuing interest in the mental health effects of noise over the last five years (2003-2008). In particular the aspect of noise sensitivity has been studied more extensively in this period. Also recent results of longitudinal studies around major airports and the so called LARES (Large Analysis and Review of European housing and health Status) study shed more light on the relationship between noise and mental health, and the role of mediating factors. In children the effect of noise on hyperactive symptoms was confirmed and an effect of noise on subjective health symptoms found in several studies. A few studies placed both theoretically and empirically the relationship between noise and mental health in a broader context of soundscapes and environmental quality. Especially of interest is the increasing attention for the restorative function of quiet and green areas in particular, where mental health effects are concerned.