Study: “Community severance” by roads and traffic increases schizophrenia-related hospital admissions

A new study highlighted by Brown University found that “community severance” from roads and heavy traffic—where neighborhoods are physically divided— is linked to higher rates of schizophrenia-related hospital admissions.

Unlike past research focused on pollution or noise, this study shows that the physical design of cities—especially barriers to walking and social interaction—can independently harm mental health.

The findings suggest that improving urban design—like increasing walkability and reducing car-dominated infrastructure—could help strengthen social connection and potentially reduce mental health risks.