Inaudible Sound Worsens Mood: Scientists Uncover How Infrasound Affects the Mind

How Infrasound Impacts Human Health

According to ХВИЛЯ: A study conducted by Canadian researchers involving 36 volunteers found that infrasound at a frequency of 18 Hz raises cortisol levels and dampens mood, even though participants were unaware of its presence. Published in the journal Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, these findings could have major implications for noise regulations and building standards. Infrasound refers to sound waves below 20 Hz, a range often undetectable by human ears but generated by sources like storms, ventilation systems, traffic, industrial equipment, and aging pipes in basements.

During the experiment, hidden subwoofers delivered infrasound while participants listened to either calming or unsettling music. Saliva samples were taken before and after each session to measure cortisol, a stress hormone. Those exposed to infrasound showed higher cortisol levels and rated the music as sadder compared to the control group.

Professor Rodney Schmaltz of MacEwan University noted: 'Imagine visiting what feels like a haunted house. Your mood shifts, you feel on edge, yet you see or hear nothing unusual. In an older building, there’s a good chance infrasound is present, especially in basements where aging pipes and ventilation produce low-frequency vibrations.'

Infrasound-acoustic vibrations below 20 Hz-can originate from diverse sources, including:

• thunderstorms
• HVAC systems
• traffic
• industrial machinery
• old basement pipes

Professor Trevor Hamilton, the study’s lead author, explained: 'Elevated cortisol helps the body respond to immediate stressors by putting it on high alert. This is an evolved response. However, prolonged cortisol release is harmful. It can lead to various physiological conditions and affect mental health.'

The researchers acknowledged that the sample of 36 participants is relatively small, and that this study represents only an initial step in understanding infrasound’s effects on humans. Looking ahead, the results could shape noise regulations and inform the development of new building standards.

This Canadian research underscores the need to examine infrasound’s impact on human health, particularly in the context of modern construction. Given that infrasound can be present in many residential and commercial spaces, the findings may lay the groundwork for updated design and building guidelines aimed at reducing negative effects on both mental and physical well-being. Further investigation into this topic could deepen understanding of the mechanisms behind infrasound’s influence and its long-term health consequences for populations.