Texas State University officials recently launched the first university-level course designed to teach students how to create interior spaces that support people with mental illnesses. The program was designed by Mais Aljunaidy, assistant professor of psychology and Nadim Adi, assistant professor of interior design, officials announced in a news release.

The gist

The interdisciplinary program, coined “architectural psychopathology,” focuses on therapeutic environments that support people with mental illnesses, including autism, dementia and depression.

The details

In addition to helping students learn how to be intentional about designing living spaces for people with varying needs, it also encourages them to advocate for building codes that prioritize mental health.

Jayme Blaschke, Texas State director of media relations, said architectural psychopathology differs from traditional architectural psychology because it focuses on specific needs rather than the general impact of built environments on human behavior and well-being.

What they’re saying

“This course is the first of its kind to provide comprehensive guidance on how interior design features can be tailored to support people with mental health conditions, from eating and sleep disorders to personality and anxiety disorders,” Blaschke said.