A home is meant to be a sanctuary—a place of comfort, rest, and retreat from the hustle of daily life. However, for many, their living space can unintentionally become a source of stress and anxiety. Imagine walking through the door at the end of a long day, only to feel tension bubbling instead of relief.
Surprisingly, a home’s environment plays a significant role in mental health. From small annoyances to more impactful stress triggers, the space people inhabit can either support well-being or work against it. The good news? A few thoughtful adjustments can transform a stressful space into a peaceful haven.
Clinical psychologist and author of Joy From Fear, Dr. Carla Marie Manly, Ph.D., and Havenly interior designer Brady Burke share their insights on how a home might be affecting mental health—and practical solutions to make it a space that nurtures instead of drains.
1. The Thermostat Isn’t Set Right
Temperature plays a surprisingly big role in comfort and mood. Most people have experienced sleepless nights caused by being too hot or too cold, or that stuffy feeling when there’s no proper ventilation. According to Dr. Manly, “Anxiety can be triggered if a home is too hot, too cold, or without adequate ventilation. For some, open windows are essential for peace, while others feel anxious when windows aren’t closed.”
Solution: Determining what works for individual comfort is key. Adjust the thermostat to an optimal range—generally between 68–72°F—and ensure good air circulation. Tools like fans, air purifiers, or humidifiers can also create a more comfortable and stress-free environment.
2. Clutter Is Taking Over
Visual clutter can lead to mental clutter. A disorganized and messy space can make it difficult to relax, especially when unfinished tasks like piles of laundry or dishes are staring back. As Brady Burke explains, “Clutter is a telltale sign that your home is working against you and not with you.”
Solution: A tidy space doesn’t mean going completely minimalist, but rather creating order. Start small by organizing one area at a time and giving every item a designated home. Incorporating personal touches, such as artwork or meaningful decor, can further enhance the comfort and personality of a space.
3. Work and Personal Life Are Blurring Together
For those who work from home, the lines between work and relaxation can quickly blur. Without clear boundaries, it’s easy to feel like work never ends. Dr. Manly advises, “When work is confined to one space, it helps create a clear delineation between work time and rest time.”
Solution: A dedicated workspace can make all the difference. Even a small desk in the corner of a room can help establish boundaries. Work-related items should be kept out of bedrooms, as these spaces should remain peaceful sanctuaries. Dr. Manly also suggests keeping phones and laptops away from the bed to ensure better sleep and relaxation.
4. Natural Light Is Limited
Sunlight doesn’t just brighten up a room; it can have a profound impact on mental health. Exposure to natural light boosts vitamin D levels, which are known to reduce depression and anxiety. Dr. Manly highlights, “Natural light is a mood elevator and improves one’s quality of life.” Conversely, a dark home can dampen energy and create a sense of gloom.
Solution: Maximizing natural light is essential. Curtains should be opened wide to let sunlight in, and furniture should be arranged to avoid blocking windows. For homes with limited access to natural light, lamps with warm-toned bulbs or daylight-simulating features can make a significant difference. Mirrors can also be strategically placed to reflect light and create a brighter, more open ambiance.
Transforming a Home Into a Haven
The environment someone lives in can have a profound impact on their mental well-being, either supporting a sense of calm or contributing to stress. By addressing these common triggers—temperature issues, clutter, work-life boundaries, and lighting—any home can become a space that promotes peace and relaxation.
Starting small and making intentional adjustments can lead to big changes in how a space feels. A well-organized, well-lit, and calming home doesn’t just look good—it feels good too.
Would you like more ideas for creating a stress-free living space? From decluttering tips to lighting tricks, transforming a home into a personal oasis is easier than it seems.
