According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, around 22% of Australians aged 16-85 have experienced a mental disorder at some point in their lives. This translates to about five million people.
In fact, the problem is so serious that national recurrent spending on mental health-related services in 2021–22 was guesstimated to be over $12.2 billion.
Due to this spending and an increasing focus on curtailing mental health issues, several innovative solutions have been developed to provide individuals with safe and supportive areas in which to relax and develop emotional wellness.
One such advancement is the mental health lounge, which has become more popular in various environments. But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit individuals and communities?
This guide will highlight the main purpose and key features of a mental health lounge, and the different ways it can support mental well-being.
Understanding the Concept of a Mental Health Lounge
A mental health lounge is a dedicated space designed to provide a calming and supportive environment for individuals to focus on their mental well-being.
These lounges are increasingly being found in workplaces, schools, community centres, hospitals, and even shopping centres and offer people a sanctuary away from daily stressors and allow them to relax, reflect, and access mental health resources when they need them.
Unlike traditional therapy sessions or medical settings, mental health lounges are informal spaces that encourage open conversations, mindfulness, and self-care.
They may be staffed by mental health professionals, peer support workers, or volunteers trained in mental health first aid, and their goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere where people can take a break, de-stress, and seek guidance if necessary.
The Purpose of a Mental Health Lounge
The primary aim of a mental health lounge is to support an individual’s mental well-being by being accessible and inclusive.
Predominantly, mental health lounges offer a judgment-free environment where individuals can escape triggers and unwind without fear of stigma or discrimination.
These spaces try to promote relaxation and mindfulness and are designed to encourage visitors to take time for themselves and practice self-care techniques. They also sometimes have peer support workers who understand the challenges of mental health struggles and can provide an empathetic ear and guidance as required.
Key Features of a Mental Health Lounge
Every mental health lounge is different in terms of its design and what it offers. However, most include features that promote relaxation and emotional well-being, including comfortable seating areas with soft chairs and cushions and quiet spaces for individuals to practice guided meditation, breathing exercises, or quiet reflection.
They typically have soft lighting, with natural elements like plants, and soothing colours that help to create a calming aesthetic and provide books, pamphlets, and digital resources that cover topics like stress management, anxiety, and self-care.
Additionally, mental health lounges tend to comprise areas that are set up for interactive activities like journaling, art and colouring, or puzzles to help distract people from overwhelming thoughts, as well as refreshment stations with herbal teas, water, and light snacks.
The Benefits of Mental Health Lounges
When set up correctly, mental health lounges offer a wide range of benefits to individuals and communities. Here’s how they can positively impact a person’s mental well-being:
- Reduce Stress and Anxiety
For many people suffering from their mental health, life can be filled with stressors, which can manifest at work, school, or home.
A mental health lounge provides a sanctuary where individuals can prioritise their mental health, which, therefore, can help to lower stress and anxiety levels.
- Encourage Open Conversations About Mental Health
A lot of people still find it hard to talk about their mental health for fear of being judged. However, by providing a non-judgmental environment, mental health lounges can help to normalise conversations around mental well-being, much to their benefit.
When people feel safe discussing their emotions and struggles, they are more likely to do so and, therefore, get the help they need.
- Improving Mental Well-being at Work and School
In recent years, there has been a rise in the number of workplaces and educational institutions that have incorporated mental health lounges within their premises.
By providing employees and students with access to these spaces, they are more likely to feel supported, which will lead to an overall improvement in their mental well-being, and increased productivity, engagement, and satisfaction.
- Providing Immediate Support
Sadly, not everyone is ready or able to seek professional mental health care immediately. So, until such time as they are, mental health lounges offer an intermediate level of support because individuals can access self-help tools, peer support, and referrals to professional services if they are willing to accept them.
- Builds a Sense of Community
Many people who struggle with mental health issues often feel isolated. However, as a mental health lounge encourages social interaction in a supportive setting, it goes a long way towards helping individuals build connections and feel less alone.
