Mental disorders in tourism and hospitality: A systematic review of the current landscape and future pathways

Abstract

This study critically examines mental health in the tourism and hospitality sector. It aims to identify key themes, recurring patterns, challenges and opportunities, while charting future research avenues to address existing knowledge gaps. The study used a systematic literature review methodology, with both bibliographic and thematic analysis based on PRISMA guidelines. Data were obtained from the Scopus database, which provided 221 peer-reviewed journal articles for analysis. The findings reveal a snowballing scientific interest in mental health within the tourism and hospitality landscape. Key insights highlight (1) the promising therapeutic potential of tourism experiences to support individuals with mental health conditions, (2) new, yet underdeveloped, management strategies to support employee and guest mental well-being, and (3) significant research gaps in specific mental health disorders and culturally competent interventions. Therefore, this study contributes to the literature by systematically mapping the fragmented field within tourism-hospitality and mental health research, where knowledge blind spots are highlighted and a comprehensive agenda for future research is proposed. The study suggests practical implications for two distinct groups: it encourages tourism and hospitality stakeholders to plan more inclusive products for diverse travelers with mental health needs, and to execute organizational practices that bolster the wellbeing of their employees.