<p>New Zealand has a high rate of mental disorders affecting 1 in 5 people. Current guidelines only outline building typologies and do not question the deeper affect of one’s perception of the built environment. This thesis seeks to help understand the affect of architecture on mental illness: specifically the condition of depression. In order to comprehend the relationship between architecture/space and its inhabitant, this thesis will firstly investigate how intangible elements such as colour, light; form etc. can alter the perception and experience of space. Secondly through case studies, text and drawings the thesis will examine the affect of the intangibles on the state of mental illness/depression. The negative aspect of architecture activating depression will be examined. This will assist in understanding how architecture can positively affect occupants of space with depression. Architecture and its relationship with depression will be examined to conclude whether it is a contributing factor. Architecture as therapy or as a therapeutic agent is proposed to engage aspects of the intangible. Investigation and comprehension of depression will lead to the selection of the site and a specific programme; then develop analysis to draw conclusions creating design considerations for treatment facilities. Furthermore it will translate ideas and theories from the framework into tangible physical identities. In depth critical analysis of existing precedents and understanding historical facilities is a key part of this research, building upon discovered issues. A case study design is aimed at creating architecture as therapy, which better understands the relationship of the ‘intangible’ in architecture. This thesis will propose a strategy to develop the specificity of architecture for therapy, to assist in addressing the specific treatment of severe depression in a New Zealand context, with the hope of increasing the success of therapy and rehabilitation.</p>
(375) The relationship of absorption and relaxation training with biofeedback in the management of chronic pain
