The effect of environmental factors on neurobiology and depressive symptoms: A narrative review

Depression and anxiety are among the leading mental illnesses in America, however, their root cause remains relatively unclear in terms of neurological function. This review paper aims to explore how certain environmental factors, specifically the physical environment, stress, familial interactions and relationships, and social relationships, can affect neurological function in the brain, and possibly increase symptoms of depression and risk for depression. Future directions are also discussed with respect to whether there are certain changes or improvements that can be made to our environments in order to preserve and maintain healthy neurological function, reducing the likelihood of developing mental illnesses.