The Impact of Urban Design on Mental Health: An Insight from Personal Experience

Urban design plays a crucial role in shaping our lives, affecting everything from physical activity to mental well-being. In this article, we will explore the effects of urban design on mental health, drawing from personal experiences and insights.

Personal Reflection on the Effect of Urban Design on Mental Health

I can vividly recall the detrimental impact urban design had on my mental health when I moved to New York City (NYC) during my college years. Growing up in California, I was accustomed to expansive horizons, open spaces, and short buildings that allowed me to see the sky without having to gaze upwards. However, in NYC, the overwhelming feeling of being surrounded by tall buildings and a chaotic environment often left me feeling confined and disoriented.

One instance stands out clearly in my mind. On one particularly low day, I found myself crying at the doctor's office and bluntly stated, "I hate having to look straight up to see the sky." The stark contrast between the natural environment I was accustomed to and the urban landscape of NYC took a toll on my mental health. This experience highlighted to me how urban design can significantly impact our emotional well-being.

Returning to a Healthier Residential Environment

Years later, after my college days, I moved back to New York for work. However, this time, I chose to live in a neighborhood within Upper Manhattan known for its spacious and open character. The difference was dramatic. This residential environment felt like a breath of fresh air and an improvement over the confined spaces I had experienced in college.

While I still enjoy visiting New York, I am no longer content to live there. The experience of moving to a neighborhood that offered more natural elements and spaciousness reinforced the positive impact of a well-designed urban environment on mental health. It also made me realize that my mental health could be significantly influenced by the design choices in my living environment.

Science Behind Urban Design and Mental Health

Research supports the notion that urban design can have profound effects on mental health. Studies have consistently shown that environments with more green spaces, natural light, and open areas are linked to improved mental well-being. Nature and open spaces are believed to provide a sense of freedom and calm, which can reduce stress and anxiety.

The impact of urban design on mental health is not just anecdotal. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of living in environments that incorporate natural light, green spaces, and the ability to engage in physical activities. For example, a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that individuals who had access to green spaces were less likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Personal Experience of Service in Army

My personal experience as a soldier also underscores the importance of urban design in maintaining mental health. During my service, I faced significant mental health challenges that ultimately led to my separation from the military. The impact of the urban environment on mental health is not limited to civilians; it also affects soldiers who are deployed or stationed in urban settings.

The nature of military service often involves confined spaces and repetitive routines, which can be detrimental to mental well-being. Additionally, soldiers who are stationed in areas with minimal natural elements might face increased stress and anxiety. This experience highlighted the need for cities and military facilities to be designed with mental health in mind, incorporating elements like green spaces, natural light, and open areas to support the well-being of their occupants.

Conclusion

Urban design has a profound impact on our mental health, and the experiences shared in this article only scratch the surface. Whether we live in the bustling heart of a major city or in a smaller, more residential area, the design features of our environment can significantly influence our emotional well-being.

By incorporating more green spaces, natural light, and open areas, cities and urban planners can help promote better mental health among their residents. As we move forward, it is essential to consider the mental health implications of urban design, not just for soldiers or college students, but for everyone who inhabits our cities.

Let us strive to create more living environments that support mental well-being and provide a sense of freedom and calm. Our mental health depends on it.