Indoor plants are considered an aesthetic fix for any kind of home. Whether you have a rustic cottage look, a high-end apartment or a penthouse, the use of plants can liven up any space! These plants do more than just look good, as they can uplift your health in many ways.
The environment plays a crucial role in our well-being. Whether you adorn your living space with plants or you have a green and happy garden where you spend some time every evening, greenery always has a refreshing effect.
We will discuss how indoor plants can be beneficial for treatment facilities and how they can impact moods and air quality for the people around.
The Science Behind Greenery and Mental Health
Humans have an inbred tendency to turn to nature, and it is called biophilia. All of us want to go out in the sun, feel the wind and walk on grass, as nature is what we are a part of too. However, due to difficult routines or population increase, many of us are unable to enjoy open spaces where green plants and flowers can elevate our moods. Greenery can make a big difference in how a person feels.
Have you ever heard people suggest a walk in the park on a sad day? This suggestion is backed by science because we all need to connect with nature to feel good. This is why many retreats and relaxation camps are located in the hills. Plants, trees, flowers and grass make a person feel good instantly, and in treatment facilities, where people often experience anxiety, illness or depression; green plants and garden areas where you can see the sky can work wonders.
Here is how indoor plants can impact mental health:
- Lower blood pressure
- Decrease cortisol levels (stress hormone)
- Improve mood and concentration
- Reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression
- Increase feelings of vitality and energy
Plants and the Psychology of Recovery
The tradition of presenting flowers to ill people has its own history, but at treatment facilities or even at hospices, the maintenance of indoor plants can work wonders because of the calming effect of plants on people. When you breathe in clean fresh air, generated by indor plants, you feel fresh and active. Similarly, in treatment facilities, people feeling low or depressed can benefit from indoor plants. When a person is near greenery, they become happier and feel lighter because of better air quality. Brain fog, anxiety and other mental strains can easily dissolve when a person is in a greener, cleaner environment.
Natural greenery has been shown to increase serotonin levels and decrease negative emotions. Individuals who struggle with post-acute withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring depression and anxiety, can get primary help if their mood is good and they feel comfortable in their surroundings; and plants can help in this regard. Moreover, residents can enjoy watering, pruning, or simply observing plant growth and it makes them feel good about themselves. Plants can make residents become mindful because caring for plants is like meditative practice that reinforces patience and presence.
Recovery is a journey of regrowth and transformation and plants help people as greenery can uplift moods, make them feel good about themselves and as they see plants grow, residents can heal through good moods and better mental states.
The Physical Health Benefits: Cleaning the Air We Breathe
It is no news that plants can have a positive impact on human health. In all the countries where greenery is adequate, people breathe cleaner air and get to enjoy better climate. Plants are air purifiers, and we all know that breathing clean air means better health. NASA’s Clean Air Study found that certain houseplants can remove up to 87% of air toxins in 24 hours, including formaldehyde, benzene, ammonia, and trichloroethylene, common pollutants found in buildings.
Here are some key benefits of having plants around you:
- Increased oxygen levels during photosynthesis
- Humidity regulation, which can reduce respiratory issues
- Reduced airborne toxins for a healthier indoor environment
Best Indoor Plants for Treatment Centers
Not all plants are created equal. Some are more effective at air purification, while others are easier to care for in shared spaces. Here are a few recovery-friendly options:
Peace Lily
- Air purifier
- Symbolic of calm and rebirth
Snake Plant
- Requires minimal care
- Converts CO₂ into oxygen at night
Spider Plant
- Safe and non-toxic
- Excellent at removing pollutants
Pothos
- Grows quickly, symbolizing resilience
- Great for hanging baskets or climbing walls
Aloe Vera
- Healing properties
- A living metaphor for self-soothing and growth
Including a mix of floor plants, tabletop greenery, and hanging baskets can maximize the visual and health benefits without cluttering the space.
Integrating Plants into Recovery Programs
Beyond passive décor, plants can become active elements in treatment:
- Horticultural therapy: Clients engage in planting, growing, and tending to plants as a structured therapeutic activity.
- Mindfulness sessions: Guided meditations using the plant environment as a focus point.
- Responsibility rotation: Giving residents plant care duties encourages accountability, routine, and nurturing instincts.
- Creative expression: Drawing or journaling about personal growth through the metaphor of plant care.
Final Thoughts: Small Greens, Big Impact
Treatment facilities often look boring and may intimidate residents who are prone to anxiety and depression. If plants are placed indoors, or even if there is greenery in the building with some open green spaces, the people living there will feel a positive impact.
We have discussed how indoor plants can improve the air quality and in turn impact the residents positively. There are several different plants, which have a good impact on people. You can see what kinds of plants you can keep in a treatment facility to offer a clean, and fresh environment for all the residents.
