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Abstract
Mental health awareness has increased over the years as well as numerous strategies to support mental health. Some of these strategies include addressing the built environment. This paper explores the intersection between mental health and the built environment through the lens of affordable architectural methods that would be effective in underfunded secondary schools. This study examines how architecture influences students’ well-being and how certain design strategies can be implemented even in schools that lack the financial resources for adequate infrastructure. Here the focus is on investigating affordable solutions such as improving ventilation, optimizing natural light, having flexible learning spaces, and incorporating biophilic design. By analyzing examples of successful mental health design strategies that are cost-effective and surveying the needs of marginalized communities, this research highlights how thoughtful, budget-friendly design strategies can have a profound impact on students’ mental health and academic performance. Ultimately, the results demonstrate the need for mental health-aware design in school architecture regardless of financial ability.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my mentor, Crystal Maria Portillo, for her invaluable assistance and feedback in making this research possible. Her support has been instrumental in shaping this work and in shaping my future following my graduation from the University of Texas at Arlington. I am truly grateful.
I would also like to extend my appreciation to the Honors College, the College of Architecture, Planning, and Public Affairs, and my supervisors at the Dan Dipert University Welcome Center for providing various opportunities for me to seek success during my undergraduate career and for pushing my desire to understand architecture’s role in the world.
Last but not least, all glory to God for what He has accomplished through me, and special thanks to my family, fiancé, friends, and dear companions for your endless support over the years.