Abdelmajid Mammou

The Higher Institute of Nursing Professions, Morocco

Abstract Title: The impact of urban environment on Mental Health

Biography:

A mental health nurse, who obtained a bachelor's degree in mental health from the Higher Institute of Nursing Professions and Health Techniques in Fes in 2019. He worked at the psychiatric hospital in the male and female psychiatry department and the addiction medicine department at the psychiatric hospital in Fes, Morocco. He also received training at the Razzi Psychiatric Hospital in the child psychiatry department and the geriatric psychiatry department.

Research Interest:

I have noticed that individuals with psychological disorders, particularly schizophrenia, respond differently when changing their residential environment or moving to a new city. This response can be either positive, providing them with a sense of comfort, or negative, which can exacerbate their symptoms such as delusions and obsessions. This underscores the significant role that the surrounding environment plays in either improving or worsening the mental state of these patients. It can be said that changing the environment to suit the psychological needs of the patient is an essential part of the treatment plan. For instance, relocating the patient to urban areas with attractive architectural designs or to peaceful green villages where water and rivers are present can have a positive impact on their mental well-being. In a real case, a patient who was experiencing mild psychological symptoms such as delusions and obsessions noticed a significant deterioration in his condition after moving to a job in a city with low population density and a semi-rural culture. Although this city was less crowded, its traditional nature did not align with his personal interests, as he preferred life in larger cities, including cultural activities related to fashion, luxury cars, and residing in modern high-rise apartments. This change in environment led to increased feelings of isolation and a worsening of his symptoms, indicating that the design of buildings and urban planning significantly affects psychological behavior. A person may feel anxious or comfortable depending on the types of buildings and spaces they occupy. Cities with a modern urban character and abundant activities cater to individuals who find comfort in a lively lifestyle, while rural environments may be more suitable for those who prefer tranquility and a closer connection to nature From this perspective, urban planning and building design are not just about aesthetics or functionality; they extend to impacting the mental health of individuals. Therefore, it is crucial to consider psychological differences when designing urban environments to ensure that spaces are created to enhance residents' well-being and meet their psychological needs. From a neuroscience perspective, research shows that the environment directly influences the brain and its functions. Urban environments with high density can elevate cortisol levels related to stress, while green spaces boost the release of dopamine and serotonin, improving mood and alleviating psychological symptoms. Additionally, sensory experiences from architectural design, such as lighting, colors, and sounds, can activate different brain areas affecting emotion and cognition, which explains why individuals may feel either comfort or anxiety depending on their surroundings.