Neighbourhood Socioeconomic Inequalities in Mental Health: Systematic Review on Moderation by Environmental Attributes.

Neighbourhood socioeconomic disadvantage has been consistently associated with an increased risk of poor mental health. Beyond socioeconomic conditions, neighbourhood environmental attributes have the potential to shape mental health, either supporting or harming wellbeing. While numerous reviews have examined the relationship between various neighbourhood characteristics and mental health, evidence on whether objectively measured environmental attributes moderate this relationship in the context of neighbourhood socioeconomic disadvantage is yet to be synthesised. This systematic review synthesised evidence from studies examining environmental attributes as moderators of the relationship between neighbourhood socioeconomic disadvantage and mental health. From seven databases and a grey literature search 19 studies were identified for inclusion. Moderation findings were mixed. Greenness and blue space were generally protective in disadvantaged neighbourhoods, while air pollution exacerbated poor mental health. Evidence for parks and walkability was inconsistent and may reflect unmeasured factors such as safety and quality. Noise and elder support centres were examined in one study each, highlighting the limited evidence on these attributes. In addition, more longitudinal research examining a broader range of environmental attributes is needed to inform urban planning policies aimed at reducing mental health inequalities.