Impact of seasonal color shifts in gardening on individuals with psychotic disorders, quantified by biosensors
Research into the design of healing gardens for mental and behavioural disorders is still limited, but a recent study has provided initial evidence that seasonal color change in plantings may be beneficial for patients with psychotic disorders.
The study, which used a questionnaire survey and biosensors for eye-tracking, facial expression analysis, and galvanic skin response, aimed to investigate the effect of seasonal color change in plantings on patients with psychotic disorders. The findings suggest that the use of deciduous trees in the design of healing gardens could potentially enhance the emotional experience of these patients.
One of the key design elements of the study was the use of deciduous trees to provide seasonal variation in color and light. This seasonal dynamic was found to create positive and intense emotions in the patients, potentially counteracting symptoms such as emotional blunting or apathy commonly seen in psychotic disorders.
The beneficial effect of nature, specifically healing gardens, on patients with mental disorders is being investigated, and this study contributes to the ongoing investigation. It aligns with demonstrated benefits of nature exposure in mental health care, including reduced anxiety, improved mood, and enhanced emotional regulation.
The study found that differences in gender and age between participants did not significantly affect their preferences for seasonal color change in plantings. However, it was noted that the emotions of male participants were more difficult to positively affect compared to female participants.
Other key design elements of the healing gardens included naturalistic landscapes, tranquil environments, safe and accessible walkways and quiet seating areas, and patient-informed elements. Consulting former patients or caregivers was found to significantly enhance the garden's healing potential, making it more uniquely suited to patients' needs.
The design should foster a supportive atmosphere where patients feel emotionally safe and comfortable to engage with the space, facilitating mental health benefits beyond the physical environment alone.
Further research is necessary to obtain more detailed design recommendations for landscape architects, but the study provides a promising foundation for the future design of healing gardens for patients with psychotic disorders.
Images depicting seasonal color change in plantings were displayed on a computer monitor for the patients to view, and the study found that this visual stimulation was an important factor in creating a positive emotional response.
In conclusion, healing gardens for psychotic patients benefit from thoughtfully integrated deciduous trees that mark seasonal changes, combined with naturalistic landscaping, accessible design, and patient-informed elements to optimize emotional and therapeutic outcomes.
The study suggests that the inclusion of deciduous trees in the design of healing gardens may aid in improving the emotional experience of individuals with psychotic disorders, aligning with the broader benefits of nature exposure in health-and-wellness and mental-health care. Future research could offer more detailed recommendations for landscape architects, emphasizing the importance of fostering a supportive and engaging environment to maximize emotional and therapeutic benefits.
