Depression and Anxiety Emerging From Heavy Metals

Abstract

Depression and anxiety are among the most serious disorders spread-out all over the world. In most cases, patients with depression present features of anxiety. Interestingly and inversely, patients with anxiety also present depression. Thus, both disorders may occur together, with one meeting criteria of the other. The extent of the two disorders has been shown through the high rates of their prevalence. They are, furthermore, associated with significant morbidity which shows how important is to identify and treat both illnesses. However, several epidemiological studies have reported such illnesses to be intensified with the influence of environmental factors such as the toxic effect of heavy metals. Furthermore, the influence of climate change exacerbates the negative effect of these elements. Biological and preclinical investigations have reconciled the mechanism of action by which heavy metals set off emotional disorders. Though its potential harms are important, more studies are needed to understand heavy metals' influence on the evoked pathways.

Impact of Environmental Pollutants on Gut Microbiome and Mental Health via the Gut–Brain Axis

“…The adverse effects of heavy metals on human health have been well documented. Numerous preclinical, epidemiological and biological studies have established a link between heavy metal pollutants, such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) [ 49 , 50 , 51 , 52 , 53 ] and mercury (Hg) [ 54 , 55 ], and psychiatric disorders [ 56 , 57 ]. Before reaching the brain, preliminary environmental exposures are anticipated to interact with the gut-associated microbiome [ 58 , 59 ].…”