Accommodation environments and student mental health in the UK: the role of relational spaces

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.