Graduation Year

2025

Degree Type

Open Access Capstone

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

Abstract

Background: College students experience high levels of stress, with associated negative outcomes such as poor mental and physical health. In response, colleges and universities have explored the use of stress management spaces designed to address and promote improved mental health and wellbeing, but evidence regarding the most effective design and impact of these spaces is limited.

Purpose: The purpose of this project was to conduct a scoping review of the available literature related to stress management in higher education settings. The research questions are: What are the characteristics and design features of these spaces, and how do stress management spaces on college campuses support student occupational performance, occupational balance and well-being? These questions aim to explore the role of physical and sensory environments in promoting students’ engagement, health, and participation in academic and daily life occupations

Theoretical Framework. This capstone project is guided by both Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and the Person-Environment-Occupation-Performance (PEOP) Model, offering a complementary lens through which to explore student engagement with campus-based stress management spaces.

Methods. Using the Arksey and O’Malley (2005) process for scoping reviews, this project addressed the lack of comprehensive mapping regarding stress management spaces on college and university campuses. The research problem centered on limited synthesized knowledge about space design, intended use, user experiences, and reported outcomes associated with student engagement in these environments. Data was collected from peer-reviewed journals and grey literature sources.

Results. Results indicated that universities are showing increased use of stress management spaces for sensory inclusion to support mental health and wellness. These environments encompass sensory rooms, relaxation lounges, meditation areas, wellness hubs, quiet study spaces, and outdoor gardens and spaces; all designed to promote selfregulation, stress relief, and occupational balance while helping students manage academic and personal demands.

Conclusions: These research findings can inform future occupational therapy research initiatives and support evidence-based development and implementation of stress management spaces on college campuses, contributing to more effective student mental health support systems in higher educational environments and opportunities for occupational therapy contributions.

Faculty Mentor

Shirley O'Brien, PhD, OTR/L , FAOTA

Department Affiliation

Occupational Therapy

Committee Member

Renee Causey-Upton, PhD, OTD, OTR/L, CLA, FAOTA

Department Affiliation

Occupational Therapy

Department Affiliation

Occupational Therapy

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