Mental Sensorium

Abstract

According to ADAA, nearly one-half of those diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders are highly treatable but only 36.9% are receiving any kind of treatment. Anxiety disorders develop based on a set of factors including genetics, brain chemistry, personality, and life events. Many do not realize but our environment, especially the built environment we inhabit every day can have a positive or negative effect on our mental well-being. Architecture should not just focus on the physical needs of their inhabitants but the mental health needs as well. The built environment has a considerable impact on mental well-being and how it can affect the human mind on a daily basis. Through research, it has been noted that the stimulation of the senses within the built environment can have a positive impact on our mental health. When our senses are activated in a carefully designed way, it can lead to a clearer, more positive perception of the built environment and allow for individual and unique experiences for each person