Diminishing Waters: The Great Salt Lake's Desiccation and Its Mental Health Consequences

The desiccation of Utah's Great Salt Lake (GSL) poses significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. This study examines how the diminishing GSL, exacerbated by anthropogenic changes, affects community mental health. Reduced water inflow has exposed the lakebed, increasing airborne particulate matter and dust storms, which impact air quality. By integrating diverse datasets spanning from 1980 to present—including in-situ measurements, satellite imagery, and reanalysis products—this study synthesizes hydrological, atmospheric, and epidemiological variables to comprehensively track the extent of the GSL’s surface water, local air quality fluctuations, and their effects on community mental health. The findings indicate a clear relationship between higher pollution days and more severe depressive symptoms. Specifically, individuals exposed to ~ 22 days with PM2.5 levels above the World Health Organization's 24-hour guideline of 15 μg/m³ were more likely to experience severe depressive symptoms. Our results also suggest that people experiencing more severe depression not only face a higher number of high-pollution days but also encounter such days more frequently. The study highlights the interconnectedness of poor air quality, environmental degradation and mental health emphasizing the need for more sustainable economic growth in the region.