Understanding the environment-mental health connection
Verywell / Laura Porter
Our surroundings shape a lot more than our daily routines.
They influence everything from how we think to how we feel and function.
The environment and mental health are intrinsically connected.
Verywell / Laura Porter
In psychology, these are called environmental factors ofmental health.
These factors are the main focus of study for environmental psychologists.
Is your environment promoting your well-being?
Or is it taking a toll on your mental health?
It’s essential to identify the environmental factors that can affect you psychologically.
Doing so can shed light on whether the locations you frequent contribute to or detract from your mental wellness.
Environmental factorscan also affect our mental health in how they impact us psychologically.
Several things in our environment can impact our mental health, either directly or indirectly.
Home Environment
The home environment includes more than just your physical dwelling.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
The environment in which they do these activities can impact their mental health.
But sometimes, it’s your perception of the environment that contributes to how you feel.
But the opposite is also true.
To accomplish this, practicegratitudeand create a routine or habit to reduce the clutter around you.
Snow recommends focusing on what is working and supporting you in your current environment.
“Don’t let the feelings build up,” Snow says.
The next step is to identify if a change is needed.
“It may not be sufficient enough, and getting treatment may be required,” she says.
Snow recommends starting with thethings you have control overand can accomplish relatively easily.
Organize your space, for instance, or get a sound machine to cover up street noise.
Or maybe you live in an area where sunlight is scarce.
This is “a real concern withseasonal affective disorder(SAD),” says Scott.
One solution is to implement bright light in your environment.
This can help improve depression and anxiety, Scott says, especially during the long days of winter.
If you work from home, for instance, start with your home office.
The good news is there are ways to support yourself where you are now.
Below are some simple solutions from Scott.
Takeaways
Most of us will experience a change in our mental health due to environmental factors.
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