Environmental aspects influencing mental health treatments: a literature review

Abstract

Scientific studies that establish relationships between spatial variables, behavioral variables, and perception are powerful tools in building efficient spaces that are attentive to users’ needs. In the case of mental health care establishments, such as psychiatric hospitals and Psychosocial Care Centers, the physical environment is a key element in guaranteeing the quality of treatment. However, it is often underestimated by stakeholders. This article reports the result of a literature review of articles that provide scientific evidence on the influence of the physical environment on the perception and behavior of people in mental distress and their caregivers. The chosen method was the integrative method, which allows the inclusion of empirical and theoretical studies for a broader understanding of the analyzed phenomenon. The result presents the synthesis of 32 peer-reviewed scientific papers arranged in three categories: the well-being of patients, the well-being of healthcare employees and the conflicts of interest between these two types of users. The mentally ill can benefit from environments that present: (a) Refuge and comfort, (b) Facilitators of social interaction, (c) Freedom and regulation of personal space, and (d) Positive distractions. Two aspects are relevant to staff: (a) User participation in the design process and (b) Functional environments. There are conflicts of interest between the two types of users, regarding (a) Degree of freedom and security, (b) Designation/flexibility of spaces, (c) Access of patients to the wards, and (d) Number of patients in dormitories. All aspects are discussed in depth in the text.