Concrete jungle: the most urban countries in the world

Concrete jungle: the most urban countries in the world

We take a look at the world's most urban countries and why they go hand in hand with the most stressed

City life is stressful. It presses on our weary bones, wafts pungent fumes through windows, and encroaches on our personal space.

It affects our mental health, increasing the risk of mood and anxiety disorders, including depression and schizophrenia, according to a 2011 study by neuroscientist Andreas Meyer-Lindenberg.

The specific causes of stress in the city are unconfirmed, but it is likely that we can safely assume a mix of toxins, pollutants, noise and social behavior unique to cities.

alt=“Hong Kong is one of the most urban countries in the world “>EarnestTse/ShutterstockSome countries are already 100% urbanized

Noise in particular has been identified as a cause of increased stress among city dwellers. A 2014 study in the Dutch city of Maastricht found that “residents of neighborhoods with more annoyance from car traffic and more disruption from rail noise reported poorer mental health.”

Here at Atlas & Boots we always encourage people to get outside into nature and unwind. Studies often show the positive effects of nature on our mental health. Even a short walk in nature once a week can improve mental well-being.

With increasing urbanization around the world, it is clear that governments need to examine and invest in ways to mitigate the negative impacts of city life.

alt="Map of the most urban countries in the world">World BankThe most urban countries in the world

In some countries, the percentage of the population living in urban areas has already reached 100. Below we list the most urban countries in the world based on World Bank data.

The most urban countries in the world – ranking

This is based on thePercentage of people living in urban areasas defined by national statistical offices and calculated using World Bank population estimates and urban conditions from the United Nations World Urbanization Prospects.

Source: The World Bank

For incredible, beautiful, terrifying depictions of life in Hong Kong, see Architecture of Density by Michael Wolf.

Main image: pkproject/SHutterstock

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