India, Dec. 3 -- A growing body of evidence suggests that the air we breathe does more than just affect our lungs; it has a profound and potentially devastating impact on our mental health and cognitive function. As air quality index (AQI) levels soar, especially in cities like New Delhi, psychiatrists are observing a direct correlation between toxic air exposure and a spike in anxiety, depression, and cognitive complaints. Also read | Experts weigh in on the hidden health impact of Delhi air pollution, beyond lungs: Skin, hair, bones, and even fertility

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Shivi Kataria, consultant, psychiatry, CK Birla Hospitals, Jaipur, shed light on the unseen biological mechanism at play. She said, "The effects of ...