Despite what we might assume, the world that surrounds us shapes a lot more than our daily routines. They influence everything about us, from how we think to how we feel and function. Considering the noise from the street might make it hard to concentrate on your work or how the lighting in your office can make it hard to focus, it’s clear that our environment and mental health are intrinsically connected.
The Environment and Mental Health Connection
Our physical surroundings significantly affect our mental well-being. Urban environments, characterized by constant noise, crowded spaces, and pollution of all kinds, can lead to increased stress levels. The American Psychological Association has found that prolonged exposure to such environments can contribute to anxiety and depression from Environment and Mental Health. For instance, a noisy street outside your window can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and irritability during the day and affecting how you function.
Conversely, well-designed spaces can promote mental health. Natural light, for example, has been shown to improve mood and productivity. According to a study published in Clinical Sleep Medicine, employees exposed to natural light experienced better sleep quality and fewer symptoms of depression. Creating similar results, including plants in indoor spaces can reduce anxiety levels and enhance your overall well-being.
Impact of Physical Surroundings on Mental Well-Being
The color schemes, lighting, and layout of our environments can influence our emotions and cognitive functions. Cool colors like blue and green are known to have calming effects, while warmer colors can be linked to an increase in energy levels. The use of ergonomic furniture and thoughtful space design can also enhance comfort and reduce physical strain, contributing to better mental health. Just acknowledging the way such factors affect human behavior can be a great tool when trying to find a space that works well for you.
A cluttered environment, on the other hand, can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety. Marie Kondo, a well-known Japanese organizing consultant, emphasizes the importance of tidiness in fostering a sense of calm and clarity. Decluttering and organizing your living workspace can create a more serene and relaxed atmosphere, benefiting your mental health.
Strategies for Improving Mental Health Through Environmental Changes
One effective strategy to improve mental health is eco-therapy. This encourages people to spend time in nature to reduce stress and reap the benefits of just existing in a healthier environment.
If you find yourself wanting to make changes but are limited, some great ways to find the best space for you is to focus on what you want to avoid. For example, if you feel you’re spending too much time on screens, putting your phone/laptop charger in a room furthest from your bedroom will encourage you to avoid suffering fatigue late at night at the hands of your screen’s blue light.
If you need a relaxing break outside in nature, but time constraints and travel limitations stop you from visiting your local botanical garden, a quick walk to breathe in fresh air and clear your head would be enough.
Changing your environment doesn’t have to be drastic changes to your home or daily life, but being aware of how your environment affects you and making your space work for you will make all the difference.
If changing your environment isn’t a feasible option, there are other routes you could take. If possible, reach out to a mental health professional, such as someone with an online clinical mental health counseling qualification, for support.
The Therapeutic Effects of Nature
Nature offers a profoundly effective form of therapy that can greatly help our well-being. One of the most effective benefits is stress reduction. Spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels, which in turn reduce stress, making you feel calm and relaxed. It not only provides a tranquil setting, but is a great divide from the hustle of everyday life, making it easier to disconnect from the stresses that affect your mental health.
Mental health improvement is another effect of being in nature. Exposure to green spaces has been linked to reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, as the serene environment helps clear the mind. This break from daily stressors can lead to improved mood and a general sense of contentment when needing a well-earned break.
Nature also offers physical health benefits. It encourages physical activity, whether it’s hiking, walking, or gardening. As we know, regular physical activity can boost your overall health in many different ways. The combination of fresh air and exercise creates the perfect well-ness remedy from stress and mental fatigue.
