Mental health is a pressing global concern, demanding attention across diverse contexts. Statistics underscore the severity: in Canada, 1 in 5 individuals face mental health challenges each year while, in the US, mental health issues account for 1 in 8 emergency department visits. Factors such as climate change, affordability, violence, social isolation and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic have exacerbated the situation. Mental health is not just a personal issue or genetic disposition—it is a universal human right that affects everyone.
The theme for World Mental Health Day 2024, “It Is Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace,” resonates profoundly. Currently, 15% of the global working-age population experiences mental illness, and the enduring effects of the pandemic have transformed our relationship with work. The World Federation for Mental Health emphasizes that “employed adults spend more time working than any other activity during their waking hours.” Given the critical role workplaces play in our lives, it is essential for these environments to actively support mental health. Research from the UK reveals a return on investment—£5 for every £1 invested in workplace mental health interventions.
This Insight Article explores mental health in the workplace from a design perspective. We examine design trends that respond to the realities shaping modern workplaces, demonstrating how mental health considerations in the built environment contribute to a broader continuum of well-being throughout life. As architects, interior designers and engineers, our role extends beyond aesthetics and function to creating environments that actively support well-being. Mental health must be a central consideration in this process.
Human-Centered Design Principles and Best Practice
Human-centered design enhances well-being, safety and comfort by focusing on the holistic needs of occupants. Key elements such as natural light, ventilation, connection to nature and acoustic comfort contribute to environments that support mental clarity and reduce stress. Thoughtful design includes spaces for movement, visual appeal and universal accessibility, ensuring environments are welcoming to all.
When combined with supportive workplace policies and culture, human-centered design fosters environments that enhance well-being alongside productivity. By adhering to these principles, we create spaces that encourage positive interactions and improve the overall quality of life for occupants.
Realities and Trends Shaping New Workplaces
Understanding the interconnectedness of mental health with broader societal issues is essential in today’s evolving work environment. As organizations create inclusive spaces, integrating mental health considerations into the design process is vital. Designers are prioritizing key elements to address changing expectations and workplace practices that significantly affect mental health.
1. Flexibility and Choice
Flexibility and choice are essential in modern workplace design, enabling employees to customize their environments based on individual needs. The pandemic underscored the importance of these factors, leading organizations to recognize autonomy and ownership as key drivers of job satisfaction. A “one size fits all” approach is no longer viable. By offering a variety of spaces, companies can accommodate diverse work styles, ensuring employees feel supported to choose environments that suit their tasks and preferences.
Key design elements that support flexibility and choice across settings include open-plan layouts to encourage connection, breakout spaces for spontaneous interactions, quiet zones to help alleviate overstimulation and mental fatigue and outdoor areas that provide mental relaxation.
2. Neurodivergent and Mental Health Informed Design
Incorporating diversity, inclusion and equity into workplace design are essential for accommodating varying needs. Recognizing that not all workplaces look the same, neurodivergent and mental health informed design goes beyond physical accessibility to ensure that all individuals can thrive. With nearly 30 categories of neurodivergence and the prevalence of invisible disabilities impacting millions, our designs must reflect this diversity. This approach focuses on sensory, cognitive and emotional needs to create environments that support mental well-being for all employees, including those with neurodivergent traits such as autism and ADHD, individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injuries and those with mental health challenges like anxiety and depression.
By incorporating adaptable features, workplaces can reduce sensory overload and cognitive strain, fostering an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels dignified and respected. Factors influencing mental health and productivity include lighting, soundproofing to reduce noise sensitivity, color and tactile experiences that provide grounding through soft furnishings. Sensory zoning allows individuals to choose spaces that align with their preferences, while clear visual cues help reduce cognitive load.
3. The Impact of Hybrid and Remote Workplace Structures
The pandemic has reshaped our relationship with the workplace, prompting organizations to embrace hybrid and remote structures. This transition has granted employees greater flexibility, fostering a more supportive workforce. While these models offer benefits like reduced commuting and enhanced control over home-office environments, they also present challenges, particularly around isolation and blurred work-life boundaries.
With evolving workplace strategies, many organizations recognize hybrid models as essential for attracting and retaining talent. Designers can respond to this changing employee value proposition by incorporating hospitality-inspired amenities and flexible layouts that enhance a sense of belonging and well-being. This adaptability extends into traditionally rigid sectors like justice and education, where innovative designs promote respectful rehabilitation and engagement.
For the first time in history, six generations coexist in the workplace. This diversity also brings a rich mix of expectations and communication styles, each with unique perspectives on mental health and work-life balance. Designers can seize this opportunity to create spaces that encourage intergenerational dialogue and understanding. By aligning design with the needs of a multi-generational workforce, we can create environments that are supportive, connected and productive.
Looking Ahead
Prioritizing mental health in the workplace is a necessity that resonates globally. Recognizing it as part of a continuum of mental health care—from Education and Commercial to Health Sciences and Justice facilities—highlights how interconnected these systems are throughout life. As designers, we can educate clients about it, listen to diverse voices during the design process and shape environments that place well-being at the core—with mental health taking its rightful place alongside physical health. By including mental health in design, we can respond to the rich tapestry of the human experience.
Start a conversation with us about mental health informed design.
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