Colour is more than a mere aesthetic choice; it plays a significant role in psychological and emotional responses. The impact of colour on mental health and cognitive processes is a fascinating area of study in environmental psychology, suggesting that the hues we surround ourselves with can affect everything from mood and stress levels to thought processes and decision-making. This comprehensive blog post delves into the science behind how colours affect us and offers practical advice on harnessing the power of colour to enhance mental well-being and cognitive efficiency.

Understanding the Impact of Colour

The Science Behind Colour Psychology

Colour psychology explores the effects of colour on human behaviour and mood. Although responses to colour can be subjective, certain colours have broadly documented psychological effects. Research indicates that colour preferences might also be influenced by evolutionary factors and personal experiences, thus affecting individual reactions in diverse ways (Elliot & Maier, 2014).

How Different Colours Affect Us

• Blue: Often associated with calmness and serenity, blue can also enhance creativity and promote mental clarity. It is frequently used in environments that require focus and mental strain, such as offices and study rooms (Mehta & Zhu, 2009).
• Red: Known for its ability to evoke intensity and arousal, red can increase heart rate and adrenaline levels. While it can enhance physical reactions and is often used in places of activity, excessive exposure might lead to stress and is less recommended in areas meant for relaxation (Elliot et al., 2007).
• Green: Green, reminiscent of nature, is considered one of the most restful and soothing colours for the eye. Studies suggest that green can enhance creative performance and provide a sense of comfort, which can help alleviate stress and improve mental health (Berto, 2014).
• Yellow: Bright and stimulating, yellow is often associated with happiness and liveliness. However, in its most vibrant shades, it can be overwhelming and may distract or disrupt concentration. Lighter yellows are often used to create a sense of warmth and cheerfulness in spaces (Küller et al., 2006).
• White: Associated with purity and simplicity, white can provide a sense of space and cleanliness. However, too much white may lead to feelings of isolation and emptiness, suggesting that balance is key when using brighter tones (Kwallek et al., 2007).

Practical Applications of Colour Psychology

Enhancing Living Spaces

Home Colour Schemes

Choosing the right colours for different rooms in a home can enhance the desired mood or function of the space. For instance, blues and greens are excellent choices for bedrooms due to their calming effects, while yellows can be great for kitchens or dining areas where energy and communication are encouraged.

Influencing Mood and Stress Levels

Workspace Optimisation

Incorporating personal preference and task-related colours into workspace design can boost productivity and reduce fatigue. For example, using blue as a dominant colour might support tasks requiring mental focus, while touches of red could be beneficial for jobs requiring physical exertion (Nikolaou & Paraskeva, 2013).

Facilitating Healing and Therapy

Therapeutic Environments

Colours are used strategically in healthcare settings to promote healing and tranquility. Soft greens and blues are often predominant in such environments, helping to reduce anxiety and facilitate recovery (Douglas & Douglas, 2004).

Promoting Learning and Creativity

Educational Settings

Utilising colour effectively in educational settings can enhance learning and retention. For instance, warm colours like orange and soft yellows can stimulate and maintain alertness, which is beneficial in classrooms (Barrett & Zhang, 2013).

In Therapeutic Settings

Colour in Therapy

Therapists can use colour to create a welcoming and calming environment in their offices. Soft blues and greens are generally beneficial for calming anxious patients, while warmer tones can be used in areas designated for more active therapies.

In Fashion and Personal Wear

Clothing Choices

The colours of our clothing can influence our mood and how others perceive us. Wearing brighter colours such as yellow can lift spirits and offer a feeling of optimism, which might be particularly beneficial during public speaking or personal workouts.

Conclusion

The influence of colour on mental health and cognitive function is profound and multifaceted. By understanding the psychological impacts of different hues, individuals and organisations can make informed decisions about colour use in their environments, thereby enhancing well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life. Whether you’re painting a room, designing a workspace, or choosing an outfit, considering the psychological effects of colour can add an additional layer of effectiveness to your choices.

References

• Barrett, P., & Zhang, Y. (2013). Optimal learning spaces: Design implications for primary schools. Salford University, UK.
• Berto, R. (2014). The role of nature in coping with psycho-physiological stress: a literature review on restorativeness. Behavioral Sciences, 4(4), 394-409.
• Douglas, C. H., & Douglas, M. R. (2004). Patient-friendly hospital environments: Exploring the patients’ perspective. Health Expectations, 7(1), 61-73.
• Elliot, A. J., & Maier, M. A. (2014). Color psychology: Effects of perceiving color on psychological functioning in humans. Annual Review of Psychology, 65, 95-120.
• Elliot, A. J., Maier, M. A., Moller, A. C., Friedman, R., & Meinhardt, J. (2007). Color and psychological functioning: The effect of red on performance attainment. Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, 136(1), 154.
• Küller, R., Ballal, S., Laike, T., Mikellides, B., & Tonello, G. (2006). The impact of light and colour on psychological mood: a cross-cultural study of indoor work environments. Ergonomics, 49(14), 1496-1507.
• Kwallek, N., Lewis, C. M., & Robbins, A. S. (2007). Effects of office interior color on worker’s mood and productivity. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 104(1), 95-111.
• Mehta, R., & Zhu, R. (2009). Blue or red? Exploring the effect of color on cognitive task performances. Science, 323(5918), 1226-1229.
• Nikolaou, I., & Paraskeva, V. (2013). Color in indoor environments: Human response and applications in design. Procedia Manufacturing, 2, 676-682.