Everybody needs good neighbours, as they say. But did you know that having terrible neighbours can actually have a massive impact on the health of you and your loved ones? And when you hear that one in ten people move home as a primary result of their neighbours, it’s pretty alarming.
So, the big question for today is – how can these noisy, aggressive, and charmless people actually affect your health? Let’s take a look at some of the common health issues caused by having hellish neighbours.
Depression and stress
First of all, as anyone with a noisy neighbour will attest, don’t be surprised if you start suffering from depression or stress when you have a nightmare living next door. Your home is supposed to be your private kingdom – the only place in the entire world where you can truly relax. And if next door is up to all kinds of noisy shenanigans day and night, it’s going to impact on you. Make sure you see your doctor as well as calling the local environmental health agency – and don’t let your stress develop. Heart disease, stroke, and dangerously high blood pressure can all occur when you are suffering from stress.
Injuries from aggression
Aggressive behaviour is an incredibly common complaint from people who think they have the neighbours from hell. Of course, there is never any excuse for violence, but the sad truth is that many people still resort to it. If you are injured by an act of aggression, report it to the police immediately. Ask around for witnesses to the event, too. If a dispute escalates into an assault, you may be able to take legal action against your neighbour.
Dangers from pests, pets, and dangerous animals
Another common complaint about nightmare neighbours is all down to animals. Dirty properties that never seem to have empty bins are a big attraction for rats and other pests – who might well move on to your side of the fence when they are finished. Illness and disease may not be too far from your door if this happens. And what is it with nightmare neighbours that they always seem to keep dangerous pets, too? We suggest keeping your distance unless you want to start finding out a little more about dog bite claim information. But if something does happen to your or, god forbid, your kids, you should call the police as soon as possible.
Increase likelihood of accidents
If nightmare neighbours are messy, you will need to be a lot more careful about walking near their property – or, indeed, in some parts of your garden. Bad neighbours are more likely to leave objects outside – in various states of disrepair. They also pay less attention the needs of their garden, which can lead to overhanging branches from trees or shrubs causing your kids danger when they are playing outside.
Of course, you should always try and speak to your neighbours before calling the authorities. But if they don’t seem fazed, don’t be afraid to get in touch with the relevant people – it’s the only way you can start guaranteeing your family’s good health.
