How urban stressors affect mental health in children
Official title: Effects of Urban Chemical and Non-Chemical Stressors on Preadolescent Mental Health
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11082252 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how things like air pollution, noise, and violence in cities affect the mental health of kids and teens, especially how they might lead to feelings of anxiety and depression, so we can better understand what’s happening and help those who are struggling.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $248,555 |
| NIH project number | 5R00ES032480-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082252 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 9 to 11 years who live in urban areas and may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not within the age range of 9 to 11 years or those living in rural areas may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of urban environmental stressors, such as air pollution and non-chemical factors like noise and violence, on the mental health of children and adolescents. It aims to understand how these stressors contribute to anxiety and depression in preadolescents, particularly in urban settings where these issues are more prevalent. The study will explore the biological mechanisms involved, particularly focusing on the role of cortisol and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in mediating these effects. By analyzing data from children exposed to various urban stressors, the research seeks to uncover critical insights into the origins of mental health disorders in youth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and interventions for anxiety and depression in children living in urban environments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that environmental factors significantly impact mental health, but this specific focus on urban stressors in children is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcguinn, Laura a — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Mcguinn, Laura a
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.