September 18, 2014

THE CAR CAN'T DIE FAST ENOUGH:

Almost Every Way Of Getting To Work Besides Driving Is Better For Your Mental Health (Sydney Brownstone, 9/18/14, Co.Exist)

Three researchers who tracked more than 17,000 British commuters in surveys over a period of 18 years found that those with active modes of transportation fared better on a scale of well-being. Where an extra 10 minutes of commute time actually increased well-being levels in walkers, an extra 10 minutes of commute time decreased psychological wellness for drivers. When drivers switched to walking or biking, their psychology improved. Riding on public transit was also associated with higher levels of wellness.

The latest study is pretty consistent with other findings that show walking or biking to work is better for your physical health. But it reminds us that commuting has mental health consequences, too. Earlier this year, researchers published a study showing that drivers tend to perceive their environments more negatively than cyclists or pedestrians.

Some of the effects of switching from driving to active travel were so significant, in fact, that they mirrored the effects of other life changes like switching jobs, getting married, or having a baby. Instead of answering "no" to a question like, "Do you enjoy living in your neighborhood?" those who had made the switch started answering "yes."

Posted by at September 18, 2014 6:44 PM
  

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