Psychological Signs You Need Home Air Quality Testing
Posted in Air Quality, on May 15, 2025
When we think of reasons for home air quality testing, we usually think of physical symptoms, like coughing, sneezing, or congestion. But did you know that good air quality affects more than just the body? At SafeAir, we’ve been helping clients feel relief from the psychological and cognitive effects of indoor air pollution for over a decade. While the physical effects are easier to notice, the impact of air pollution on our brain and thinking is much harder to spot. SafeAir can help shine a light on these effects through air quality testing and other specialized services like mold testing or radon testing.
Psychological Symptoms Linked to Poor Indoor Air
.jpg "air quality testing")
Some common psychological symptoms that have been linked to poor air quality include:
- Unexplained anxiety.
- Restlessness.
- Brain fog or concentration issues.
- Mood swings and irritability.
- Increased feelings of depression or low motivation.
- Decreased productivity.
- Decreased problem-solving capabilities.
How Air Quality Affects the Brain and Mood
The brain is the most complex organ in our bodies and is greatly affected by multiple elements within our environment. While the lungs experience the brunt of air pollution, these substances make their way to the brain once the body absorbs them.
VOCs and off-gassing chemicals have a marked and well-researched effect on the nervous system. Carbon dioxide buildup from fireplaces or combustion reduces cognitive function and blood oxygenation levels, while mycotoxins from mold growth have a neurological impact. On top of this, physical symptoms may lead to poor sleep, which is a major player in the overall health of our immune system. Taken together, all of these effects can quickly impact our brain and mood.
When to Suspect Air Quality is the Cause
The symptoms of poor air quality can be difficult to differentiate from the common cold, flu, and other short-term or chronic health conditions. But there are usually a few hints that air quality problems are at fault. At SafeAir, we know a closer look is warranted when clients tell us about:
- Symptoms that improve or disappear when you are out of the house.
- Increased effects after moving, renovations, or the addition of new furniture.
- Co-occurring symptoms like headaches or unexplained fatigue.
- Past or present mold growth, ventilation problems, or pollutants.
The Value of Professional Air Quality Testing
The best way to understand if hidden pollutants are affecting your mental and emotional health is to have professional air quality testing. SafeAir’s comprehensive assessment protocol covers a wide range of environmental and structural causes of indoor pollution. It can be tailored for your home’s unique needs, and other services, like radon testing or mold testing, can be done concurrently. Understanding the exact nature of your home allows us to offer tailored solutions that result in immediate and long-term improvements.
Taking Action to Improve Home Air Quality Today
There are small steps everyone can take to improve their living environment and promote wellness. At SafeAir, we often prescribe air purifiers and increased ventilation to our clients; both help to reduce allergens and pollutants indoors. Switching to scent-free products (which may contain toxic VOCs) and earth-friendly products helps to reduce your chemical exposure. And lastly, we always suggest folks work to balance indoor humidity at 50%, which is both comfortable for the human body and prevents out-of-control mould growth.
When you need expert home air quality testing, trust the experts at SafeAir. Call our team to learn more about the psychological symptoms that indoor pollution can cause/