Accommodation environments and student mental health in the UK: the role of relational spaces. (2nd January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Worsley, Joanne D.; Harrison, Paula; Corcoran, Rhiannon
• Is Part Of: Journal of mental health. Volume 32:Number 1(2023)
• Page Start: 175
• Page End: 182
• Publication Date: 2023-01-02
• Subjects: Student accommodation -- university student mental health -- relational spaces -- relational wellbeing -- sense of belonging; Mental health -- Periodicals; Mental health services -- Periodicals; 362.2
• DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2021.1922648
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-8237

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Despite Universities UK emphasising a "whole university approach" to improve mental health and wellbeing, quantitative research exploring the role of accommodation environments in student mental health is limited. Aim: To explore the effects of physical and social structures on university student mental health in the UK. Methods: Using a cross-sectional sample of newly acquainted student residents living in shared accommodation in North West England ( n = 904), this study sought to investigate how accommodation environments influence students' mental health with a focus on the concept of relational spaces. Results: Within the milieu of university accommodation, a low sense of belonging and feeling uncomfortable were associated with higher levels of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Poor relationships with fellow residents and not using communal areas were associated with higher levels of depression and loneliness, whilst sharing cooking with others was associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety. Conclusions: For students to flourish in their new homes, accommodation providers must consider relational wellbeing, making places that foster a sense of belonging where students feel sufficiently connected to others. As empowering communities and promoting community cohesion is central to health and wellbeing promotion, greater efforts need to be made to consider relational aspects of space and wellbeing in the design and stewardship of student accommodation.