[Some psychological characteristics of persons exposed to small-dose methylated mercury]

In the area polluted by the man-caused mercury in the Angara River reservoir, there is fish accumulation of the toxic substance in the quantities exceeding the standard values by 2-4 times. The psychological characteristics of the persons exposed to mercury load due to fish ingestion were studied. A screening survey revealed the high situational and personality anxiety in 33.9 +/- 6.2 and 53.9 +/- 6.2% of the examinees, respectively. Lower logical and abstract thinking abilities were observed in 92.7 +/- 2.8% of the respondents. Poorer attention, significant fatiguability, and distraction were seen. According to the level of mercury in the biosubstrates, a risk group (n = 26) was formed, which was examined in the inpatient setting. The high prevalence of emotional instability and neurotism was revealed. When examined by a psychiatrist, 9 persons were recognized as apparently healthy. It is necessary to continue studies to objectivize the conclusion that small-dose methylmercury affects mental health.