How does the environment affect our health?
Humans have a natural strong need for safety. We look for physical comfort in environments, such as the right temperature. Humans need the right amount of stimulus and familiarity in environments. Comfort, entertainment, and safety are a few things that retailers and hospitality industries like to use. These go hand and hand with healthcare as well.
Another important factor is stress. This might be the most important subject for mental health in an environment. Some places can reduce or create stress, which can then impact our bodies in many ways. Our brain, nervous, and immune system are constantly working together and interacting. A loud, confusing hospital room can result in a patient feeling worried, upset, or helpless. In addition to this environment, this can cause stress emotionally which would cause the immune system to heal wounds more slowly.
The environment can persuade people’s behavior and motivation. For example, sitting in a classroom all day will get boring and tiring. The white walls, the act of sitting in a chair without moving or engaging your mind will cause tiredness. But an inviting space, with comfy chairs and mind-engaging activities, will keep your mind and blood flowing, thus keeping you awake. Humans constantly interact with the environment. It is a natural subconscious action. Outdoor air quality, surface and groundwater quality, homes and communities, are just some of the examples. Maintaining a healthy atmosphere is central to increasing the quality of life and years of being healthy. Visual noises can increase stress levels. A cluttered environment may cause you to feel worried, sad, or helpless. Some have even gotten disorders from audio noise. Small changes to your surroundings can make a big impact on your mental and physical health.
A very good example of environmental health would be, the global pandemic known as the Corona Virus. COVID-19 has caused many people to be upset, stressed financially, and frightened of becoming a victim. Every time you step outside and go somewhere that people will be, you have to take precautionary measures to ensure that you are safe from the illness. Poor outdoor air quality is tied to premature death, cancer, and long-term damage to your respiratory system. It is very important to make your environment a better place to live so that your mental health can improve.
For more information on environmental health or holistic wellness, you can contact us at 919-945-0300 or fill out an inquiry. There is also a great educational post you can read up on at neha.org.