Can Homes Affect Well-Being? A Scoping Review among Housing Conditions, Indoor Environmental Quality, and Mental Health Outcomes

Abstract

The purpose of the scoping review is to explore the relationship between housing conditions, indoor environmental quality (IEQ), and mental health implications on human well-being. In fact, time spent at home increased due to the recent COVID-19 lockdown period, and social-sanitary emergencies are expected to grow due to the urbanization phenomenon. Thus, the role of the physical environment in which we live, study, and work, has become of crucial importance, as the literature has recently highlighted. This scoping review, conducted on the electronic database Scopus, led to the identification of 366 articles. This, after the screening processes based on the inclusion criteria, led to the final inclusion of 31 papers related specifically to the OECD area. The review allowed the identification of five housing conditions [house type, age, and floor level; housing qualities; household composition; neighborhood; green spaces] that, by influencing the IEQ parameters, had impacts on the mental health outcomes addressed. By synthesizing the contributions of the review, a list of design recommendations has been provided. These will serve as a basis for future researchers, from which to develop measures to reduce inequalities in housing by making them healthier, more resilient, and salutogenic.

Challenges in IAQ for Indoor Spaces: A Comparison of the Reference Guideline Values of Indoor Air Pollutants from the Governments and International Institutions

“…[41,42], as well as the activities carried out and the use of construction materials, finishing materials, equipment, furniture, etc. [43][44][45][46].…”

The Impact of Sick Building Syndrome and Physical Air Quality on Staff Productivity in the Hospital's Outpatient Room of Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Haji Indonesia

“…This included symptom analysis, risk factors of SBS, and the enhanced effect of ventilation on SBS and productivity (22). Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) research in 2020 also showed that air quality in the building can significantly contribute to SBS (23). This is also explained in research aimed at employees in Building D of the Provincial Governor's Office, West Sulawesi, totaling 82 people.…”

“…There are relationships between SBS symptoms and the physical, chemical, and ventilation rates. These results can be used to shape treatments meant to raise occupant productivity and indoor air quality (22)(23). In the South East of Nigeria, the study looked at how the prevalence of Sick Building Syndrome impacts building occupant productivity in residential and business settings and the maintenance practices used in these two building types.…”

Inclusive mental well-being through environmental design

“…For example, several studies have shown a correlation between exposure to lead in early childhood and the occurrence of cognitive deficits and behavioural disorders. Several other hazardous materials (mercury, manganese, organic solvents) produce neuropsychiatric symptoms including anxiety, depression, irritability and concentration difficulties [2][3][4][5]. Thermal conditions depend on several factors, including ventilation, radiation and humidity.…”

“…Several research has shown that individuals exposed to daylight for a few hours daily, suffer more sadness, anxiety and depression. Some studies have shown that the therapeutic use of artificial light, particularly cooler light, has found beneficial effects in reducing depressive states and anxiety [5][6][7]. Crowded and noisy places are usually associated with psychological distress and even depression [2].…”