Social and Psychological Aspects

Garment Therapy: Understanding the Therapeutic Connections between Garments Choice and Management Behavior and Mental Health

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Abstract

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (2021), 40 million adults are affected by anxiety each year. Those who suffer from anxiety can often worry about various issues, from personal health to everyday life experiences. Despite this, there has been a significant gap in academic research between garments and mental health. Beyond garments as a source of comfort for those dealing with anxiety and/or depression, research has shown wardrobes can have a similar effect on one’s mental health. Neuropsychiatric literature indicated that "the relationship between clothing behavior and depressive mood provides the need and possibility about the therapeutic meaning of clothing for depressive people" (Kim & Lee, 1999). We aim to contribute to academia by unveiling how clothing selection in daily life can help those experiencing anxiety and/or depression gain a more positive outlook about themselves and their environment via their garments and wardrobes.

How to Cite:

Mairura, J. & Kim, J., (2025) “Garment Therapy: Understanding the Therapeutic Connections between Garments Choice and Management Behavior and Mental Health”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18508