Fact brief: Are seasonal allergies associated with anxiety and depression?

Seasonal allergies have been linked to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. 

One in four Americans suffer from seasonal allergies. Studies have shown that they are more than one-and-a-half times more likely to suffer from major depressive disorder. 

Other studies show those with hay fever have higher rates of anxiety and suicidal behavior than the general population, particularly during peak allergy season. 

Research finds those with generalized anxiety tend to have seasonal allergies to grass or pollen. 

Though researchers haven’t found the exact link between allergies and mood disorders, they suspect the inflammation that allergies cause affects brain regions regulating mood. 

Certain allergy medications and lack of sleep from allergies may also contribute.

Dallas-Fort Worth ranks No. 13 in the U.S. for worst cities to live in with seasonal allergies.