In 2023 NHS England published a report showing that survey results demonstrate one in five children and young people In England aged eight to twenty-five had a probable mental disorder. NHS Mental Health Director Claire Murdoch explained these results show the unprecedented pressures faced by young people.

Inspired by February’s, Children’s Mental Health Week 2024, we thought it is important to shine a light on the realities of the world today, with the interconnected world, overstimulation, cost of living crisis, wars, conflict and climate struggles to name a few it’s understandable that mental health disorders are on the rise amongst our young. 

There are numerous amazing charities and initiatives that have been put in place across the country to help combat these struggles, offer support and direction to young people and provide relief on the individual struggles each child faces. This is something each sector, industry, company and individual should include in the work they do.

Something we strongly believe in, is the power that can be held within an environment. We are aware and keep this in the forefront of our minds throughout the production of all of our collections. The colours, textures, patterns and designs in a room can have a real impact on the mood, feelings and energy of an individual.

Research is in its early stages but it is clear that there is a direct correlation with designed fabrics and a positive impact on mental health. From the tactile incentive of contrasting velvet, chenille, wool and bouclé to bright striking colours or cool, soothing tones. It can all have an impact on the well-being of individuals.

Design in Mental Health are at the forefront of the movement. They are champions of the benefits environments that have been specifically designed to heal, have on clinical and custodial spaces. They work specifically in collaboration with CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) to create spaces fit for purpose in helping children work through their personal struggles.

There are many requirements that fabrics used in public spaces must adhere to, and with the ever evolving world of contract fabrics, there is so much more to choose from than a vinyl for a waterproof upholstery or plain non-patterned drapery. A commercial space does not need to have a clinical feel, it can be crafted for purpose, filling spaces with well-being inducing textures, colours and patterns. Take the Exotic Garden collection for example, its botanical patterns, that bring the outside world in, coupled with the light pastel tones and neutral linens creates the perfect base to create a calm and soothing space.

Aurify and Elutor offer a textured answer to flame retardant upholstery and drapery. Having textured fabrics, not only give a space a little more character but can also be calming to touch. Studies show that different surfaces can help combat anxiety by providing a physical sensation that distracts the mind from negative thoughts. The sensation can also help to release endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, which help to improve mood and reduce anxiety. It is important to consider things such as colours, designs and fabrics when designing any commercial space, however it’s even more important to think about the positive impacts your interior design choices can have on children and young people, in making them feel calm and safe in the space.

It is just as important to consider bringing these elements of design into the home. Providing spaces that offer a sanctuary to children, encouraging them to rest and reset and to make them feel safe. It is also important to create spaces that inspire creativity, unlock the imagination and let the youth of today grow and develop. Take a look at Scandi Wood Indigo, Dot Dot Kiwi, the Imprint collection, Geometrica Mandarin or Zaya Aegean for examples of how patterns and colours can be used on cushions, sofas, curtains and blinds to bring character and personality into a room. It is also important to think about how all of this can be tied together with furniture, bedding, accessories and lighting to not only tie the room together but to create the perfect space for each individual child to flourish. Taking Wisteria Lane, designed by wallpaper brand Newmor Wallcoverings, it is a stunning bright wallpaper, that brings the natural world inside, inducing calmness and joy. The perfect backdrop to a living room or bedroom.

Going forward, take a look at the space you are in, the colours around you, the textures you can feel, is it a positive space? Does it improve your mood? Most importantly is there more you can do to provide a safer and more inviting space for the youth of today?