doi: 10.62486/gen202469

 

REVIEW

 

Mental Health and Its Relationship with the Gentrification Process

 

La salud mental y su relación con el proceso de gentrificación

 

Ariadna Gabriela Matos Matos1  *

 

1Universidad de Camagüey, Departamento de Psicología-Sociología. Camagüey, Cuba.

 

Cite as: Matos Matos AG. Mental Health and Its Relationship with the Gentrification Process. Gentrification. 2024; 2:69. https://doi.org/10.62486/gen202469

 

Submitted: 09-07-2023                   Revised: 12-12-2023                   Accepted: 11-04-2024                 Published: 12-04-2024

 

Editor: Estela Hernández-Runque

 

Corresponding author: Ariadna Gabriela Matos Matos *

 

ABSTRACT

 

The article addresses the complex interaction between urban transformation and the psychological well-being of affected residents. Through a comprehensive literature review of publications between 2010 and 2023, this study synthesizes existing evidence on how gentrification influences the incidence of mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The analysis reveals that urban changes not only alter the physical infrastructure of neighborhoods but also displace communities, disrupt social support networks, and exacerbate mental health problems among vulnerable populations. This work highlights the importance of incorporating mental health considerations into urban planning and policies to mitigate the negative impacts of gentrification and promote the development of sustainable and psychologically healthy communities.

 

Keywords: Gentrification; Mental Health; Anxiety; Urban Planning; Mental Disorders.

 

RESUMEN

 

El artículo aborda la compleja interacción entre la transformación urbana y el bienestar psicológico de los residentes afectados. A través de una revisión documental exhaustiva de literatura publicada entre 2010 y 2023, este estudio sintetiza las evidencias existentes sobre cómo la gentrificación influye en la incidencia de trastornos mentales como la ansiedad, la depresión y el estrés. El análisis revela que los cambios urbanos no solo modifican la infraestructura física de los barrios, sino que también desplazan comunidades, rompen redes de apoyo social y exacerban problemas de salud mental entre las poblaciones vulnerables. Este trabajo destaca la importancia de incorporar consideraciones de salud mental en la planificación y políticas urbanas para mitigar los impactos negativos de la gentrificación y promover el desarrollo de comunidades sostenibles y psicológicamente saludables.

 

Palabras clave: Gentrificación; Salud Mental; Ansiedad; Planificación Urbana; Trastornos Mentales.

 

 

 

INTRODUCTION

The relationship between gentrification and mental health is a critical area of study that has gained prominence in recent decades. As cities worldwide face rapid and often disruptive urban transformations, gentrification becomes a more latent issue.(1,2,3)

Historically, gentrification is understood primarily through its economic and physical impacts, such as rising real estate values and the transformation of neighborhoods. However, the narrative is shifting towards a more holistic understanding that includes the psychosocial consequences of gentrification. This shift in focus is crucial, given that the restructuring of urban spaces alters geographies and displaces communities by affecting the social continuity and personal identity of its inhabitants.(4,5,6,7)

The traditional narrative on gentrification has evolved into a broader perspective that recognizes the social and psychological implications of urban transformation processes. This shift in focus is critical, as the reorganization of urban spaces modifies the physical environment and impacts community relationships.(8,9,10)

This article explores how changes in the urban fabric influence the psychological well-being of people affected by these processes. This research provides a framework better to understand the intersections between urban development and mental health, underscores the need for urban policies that seek economic benefit and the psychological well-being of affected communities, and provides a framework better to understand the intersections between urban development and mental health.

 

METHODS

The methodology employed in this study consisted of a detailed documentary review to explore the relationship between gentrification and mental health. Scholarly articles, research reports, and case studies published between 2013 and 2023 in Scopus, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar were selected and reviewed.(11,12,13)

·       Paper Selection: inclusion criteria were applied to select studies that directly addressed the effects of gentrification on mental health. Papers that provided empirical data, theoretical analysis, or critical reviews on the topic were prioritized.

·       Data Extraction: from each selected source, data related to the psychological impacts of gentrification were extracted, including types of associated mental disorders, risk factors, and affected populations. In addition, information was collected on intervention strategies and policy recommendations suggested by the authors.

·       Content Analysis: a qualitative content analysis was conducted to synthesize and compare the main findings of the reviewed documents. This analysis enabled the identification of common patterns, discrepancies, and gaps in the existing literature.

 

This desk review approach provided a solid foundation for understanding how urban restructuring through gentrification impacts the mental health of affected communities. This, in turn, shaped the discussions and conclusions of the study.(14,15,16)

 

RESULTS

Following a review of current trends in research on the relationship between gentrification and mental health, three main trends are identified. These trends highlight the importance of considering the psychosocial impacts of gentrification on the mental health of affected communities (figure 1).

Visualization of the word cloud reveals a complex web of interconnected concepts revolving around mental health and gentrification. Terms such as “mental health,” “urban renewal,” “neighborhood,” “housing,” “neighborhood,” “social problems,” and “socioeconomics” suggest an intricate web of ideas influenced by multiple factors. By closely analyzing the key terms in the cloud, one can identify trends that define the relationship between gentrification and mental health.

The prominent presence of concepts such as “mental health” and “neighborhood” coincides with the increase in mental health problems in communities affected by gentrification. Likewise, including terms such as “social problems” and “displacement” reflects the deterioration of cohesion among inhabitants due to these urban transformation processes. On the other hand, the appearance of terms such as “socioeconomics,” “displacement,” and “social change” in the word cloud suggests the existence of disparities in access to resources in gentrified contexts, aligning with the third identified trend.

 

Figure 1. Current trends in research on the relationship between gentrification and mental health

 

Increase in Mental Health Problems

Gentrification, by causing an increase in mental health problems such as anxiety and depression, poses several significant challenges, especially for those individuals who are displaced from their long-established homes and communities. Detailed studies have shown that hospitalization rates for mental disorders are notably higher among those affected by gentrification, suggesting a profound impact on the emotional and psychological stability of these individuals.(17,18)

One of the most troubling aspects of this phenomenon is the loss of social connections and support that results from forced displacement. This loss can have devastating long-term mental health consequences. The rupture with community and support networks can lead to feelings of isolation, alienation, and loss of identity, which contributes to the onset or aggravation of mental disorders.(19)

It is essential to address not only the physical and economic aspects of gentrification but also the psychosocial impacts that can have detrimental and long-lasting effects on the mental health of those affected. Implementing psychological support programs, promoting the creation of meeting spaces, and strengthening community support networks are key measures to mitigate the negative effects on mental health caused by gentrification.(20,21)

In addition, it is critical to raise community and decision-makers awareness of the importance of considering the psychosocial impacts of gentrification on the mental health of affected individuals. Adopting holistic and people-centered approaches is crucial to address this complex and multifaceted problem effectively.(22,23)

 

Deterioration of Community Cohesion

Gentrification, by triggering drastic changes in the structure of communities, not only impacts individual mental health but can also undermine community cohesion as a whole. The forced displacement of residents and the transformation of the social and cultural environment can lead to the loss of collective identity, fragmentation of support networks, and diminished solidarity among neighbors.(24,25)

The lack of strong social ties and a sense of belonging can exacerbate the isolation and alienation experienced by those displaced. The loss of the community support network may leave people without emotional resources to cope with the emotional and psychological challenges that arise during gentrification, which in turn may contribute to a generalized deterioration of mental health in the affected community.(26,27,28)

In addition, the disintegration of community cohesion can hinder people's ability to advocate for their collective needs, making it difficult to organize collective responses and seek solutions in the face of the negative impacts of gentrification. It is, therefore, essential to recognize and address these effects on mental health and social cohesion as an integral part of any urban planning strategy that promotes healthy and sustainable communities in urban change.(29,30)

 

Inequalities in Access to Resources

Gentrification, by raising living costs in affected areas, often creates additional barriers for low-income residents in their access to essential resources, including mental health services. More expensive housing and services in these areas can result in the expulsion of vulnerable populations, leaving them without access to the care and support needed to maintain adequate mental health.(31,32,33)

This exclusion from critical services can deepen existing disparities in access to mental health care. Which creates an even greater gap between those who can afford to access treatment and therapy and those who cannot.(34,35)

In addition, gentrified areas tend to prioritize services and resources that align with the needs and preferences of more affluent new residents, leaving displaced communities with fewer options and opportunities for mental health support. This lack of equitable access to mental health services can intensify socioeconomic and mental health inequities.(36,37)

To address this issue comprehensively, it is crucial to implement policies that ensure equitable access to mental health services for all population segments, regardless of socioeconomic status. This includes the creation of affordable and culturally sensitive mental health programs, as well as the promotion of diversity and inclusion in mental health care services.(38,39)

In addition, specific support mechanisms should be established for displaced communities to ensure that they have access to the resources necessary to preserve their emotional and psychological well-being amidst the changes brought about by gentrification. Collaboration between government entities, community-based organizations, and mental health service providers is critical to address these inequities in access to resources and ensure an equitable approach to mental health service provision in areas affected by gentrification.(40,41)

 

DISCUSSION

In discussing the role of psychology professionals in gentrification contexts, it was noted that they played key roles in mitigating the adverse effects of this phenomenon on the mental health of affected populations. The research showed that gentrification not only led to physical displacement but also significant psychological disorders, such as stress, anxiety, and depression, especially among the most vulnerable populations.

Psychologists, in this context, worked closely with communities to offer emotional and psychotherapeutic support, helping individuals deal with the trauma of displacement and loss of community. Group therapy was an effective tool for fostering community resilience; it allowed residents to share experiences and coping strategies in a supportive environment.(42,43,44)

In addition, psychology professionals played a crucial role in researching and evaluating the mental health impacts of gentrification. They provided critical data that informed public policy and urban interventions through longitudinal studies and community assessments. Their work helped illustrate the need to consider the consequences of gentrification beyond economic benefits, focusing on its human and social costs.(45,36,47)

In sum, psychologists provided clinical services and acted as advocates for affected communities by working toward more inclusive and ethical policies that recognized and addressed the multifaceted realities of displacement and its effects on mental health. Their work focused on individual care and advocating for structural changes that would comprehensively address the psychosocial challenges resulting from gentrification.(48,49,50)

 

CONCLUSIONS

Gentrification has a direct and significant impact on the mental health of individuals affected by displacement. The studies reviewed demonstrate an increase in the prevalence of disorders such as anxiety and depression among displaced populations, underscoring the need to address the psychosocial consequences of urban restructuring in development policies.

Gentrification leads to the breakdown of community cohesion, resulting in a significant loss of social support networks for the original residents. This community disintegration is a key factor contributing to the deterioration of mental health and highlights the importance of preserving and strengthening social structures in urban planning processes.

Urban interventions must integrate mental health considerations. Policies and planning should include strategies that minimize the negative impact of gentrification on vulnerable communities, such as providing accessible mental health services and encouraging initiatives that promote inclusion and psychological well-being for all citizens.

 

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FINANCING

None.

 

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

None.

 

AUTHORSHIP CONTRIBUTION

Conceptualization: Ariadna Gabriela Matos Matos.

Research: Ariadna Gabriela Matos Matos.

Methodology: Ariadna Gabriela Matos Matos.

Writing - original draft: Ariadna Gabriela Matos Matos.

Writing - revision and editing: Ariadna Gabriela Matos Matos Matos.