Decorate Your Way To Better Mental Health With Colour Psychology

In this post, I’m sharing some simple tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being.

Tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being by Interior stylist Maxine Brady

How Colour Psychology Can Improve Your Mental Health & boost your mood

When it comes to making your home a cosy, supportive space, what colours we use in our spaces plays a huge role in how we feel both inside and out.

It’s no secret that the colours we choose in our home decor can have an impact on our mood and mental well-being. Even mental health clinics are catching on and are using colour psychology in their treatment spaces to help boost happiness.

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Tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being by Interior stylist Maxine Brady

The Science Behind Colour Psychology

The idea that colour affects our emotions isn’t new. Cultures worldwide have linked different colours to various feelings for centuries. Modern research backs this up, showing that colours can influence brain activity, hormone levels, and even our heart rate. That’s why it is so important to choose the right colours in our homes which is where we spend a bulk of our time.

For example, using warm colours like reds, oranges, and yellows are known to bring energy, warmth, and excitement to our homes. They’re great for spaces where you want to socialise, like your living room or dining area.

On the flip side, cool colours like blues, greens, and purples evoke a feeling of calm. They can lower blood pressure and help you relax, making them perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms where you want to unwind and kick back.

And you don’t have to just paint your walls, think about the colour of your furniture, accessories, drapes and flooring when creating a positive colour scheme for your home.

Tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being by Interior stylist Maxine Brady

Colour Can Balance Your Emotions

One of the best things about using colour in your home is that it can help regulate your emotions, especially if you’re feeling a bit down. By creating different colour zones in your home, you can design an interior that supports how you want to feel or what you need to do.

For instance, if you often feel anxious, then why not create a “calm zone” in your home decorating it in soft blues and greens paints, then add lots of comfy textures and minimal clutter. This can be your go-to spot when you need to chill out.

On the other hand, if you struggle with low energy or motivation, consider an “energising zone” with warm yellows, oranges, or even a bold red accent wall. This could be the perfect place for morning routines, workouts, or creative hobbies.

Tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being by Interior stylist Maxine Brady

Use Colour Psychology To Improve YOUR Sleep

Choosing the right colours for your home is especially important in the bedroom, where the shades you paint your walls can directly impact your sleep, which in turn affects your overall mental health. And the better quality sleep you have, the better your mood will be too.

You could think about decorating your bedroom in soft, pastel colours like light blue, lavender, blush, peach or sage green all of which are great for helping you wind down at nighttime and will lower your stress levels, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. If you prefer darker tones, consider navy, black, or deep green for a restful night’s sleep as they will create a richly inviting atmosphere.

TIP: Avoid bright reds or oranges in the bedroom, as they can interfere with melatonin production, the hormone that helps regulate sleep.

Tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being by Interior stylist Maxine Brady

5 Home Decor Colours that will Boost your MOOD

When decorating your home with your mental health in mind, it’s key to find a balanced colour palette. Here are my top 5 tips to help you pick the perfect shades:

  1. Go for Nature-Inspired Hues
    Green, the colour of nature, is all about growth and renewal. That’s why adding different shades of green to your home can reduce stress and bring a sense of harmony. Try sage green or emerald accents in your home office to boost focus and creativity.
  2. Tap into the Power of Blue
    Blue is known for its calming vibes. It can lower your heart rate, making it an excellent choice for the bedroom or any chill-out spaces. Light blues can make rooms feel more open, while deeper blues create a snug, comforting atmosphere.
  3. Warm Up with Earth Tones
    Cosy up with earthy colours like warm browns, soft oranges, and muted yellows on your walls. These colours bring a sense of stability and security, perfect for family rooms or reading nooks.
  4. Use White with Care
    White can make a space feel clean and spacious, but too much might feel a bit cold. Pair it with warm accents to create a welcoming atmosphere that doesn’t feel too clinical.
  5. Add Bright Colours for a Boost
    While softer tones are generally more relaxing, don’t be afraid to add a splash of brighter colours here and there. A vibrant yellow cushion or a bold piece of art can inject energy and optimism into a space without being overpowering.
Tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being by Interior stylist Maxine Brady

How does Colour Make you feel?

While colour psychology can guide you when picking colours for your home, please remember that your personal preferences are important too. We all experience colours differently, based on our cultural background, life experiences, and even our physiology.

When choosing paint colours, take a moment to think about how different hues make you feel throughout the day. Notice the colours in spaces where you feel happiest, most relaxed, or most creative. Use these observations to inform your choices, creating a home that truly supports your emotional well-being.

If you want to learn more about colours: listen to my podcast How to Home – How to be colour confident! Series 1 Episode 1

Tips on how to use colour psychology in your home decor to boost your mood and improve your well being by Interior stylist Maxine Brady

Decorate Your Way To Better Mental Health With Colour Psychology

I hope this post has given you some insight into the colours and how they can play a significant role in your mental health. By carefully selecting colours, you can create a space that nurtures your well-being, reduces stress, and boosts your mood. What’s not to love?

Whether you’re aiming to create a peaceful retreat, an energising workspace, or a balanced family home, the right colours can help you achieve your mental health goals, one brushstroke at a time. Have fun learning how to use colour psychology in your home!

Image credits: Delightful / Laura Ashley / The Interiors Yard / Sophie Allport

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