Positive psychology is the scientific study of happiness. Positive Psychology is further defined as the "scientific study of the strengths that enable individuals and communities to thrive. It is based on the belief that people want to lead meaningful and fulfilling lives, to cultivate what is best within themselves, and to enhance their experiences of love, work, and play".
Positive psychology shares a strong connection with mental health since one of its goals is to focus on what is right about a person and how those traits can be increased- the desired result being a happier, more fulfilled life. Similarly, mental health also tries to increase positive traits to help people deal with mental disorders.
The World Health Organization defines mental health as "a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community."
Happiness, well-being and life satisfaction are components of good mental health. What are some of the other components that might influence good mental health?
Positive Psychology has three central concerns:
"Understanding positive emotions entail the study of contentment with the past, happiness in the present, and hope for the future. Understanding positive individual traits involves the study of strengths, such as the capacity for love and work, courage, compassion, resilience, creativity, curiosity, integrity, self-knowledge, moderation, self-control, and wisdom. Understanding positive institutions entail the study of the strengths that foster better communities, such as justice, responsibility, civility, parenting, nurturance, work ethic, leadership, teamwork, purpose, and tolerance."
In an utopist world, positivity and positive emotions are the only characteristics worth fighting for but human beings are an amalgamation of positive and negative emotions and experiences.
Negative emotions have a very important role to play in our lives, as do positive ones. A healthy balance would be something to strive for. Eliminating all negative emotions isn't realistic or healthy. For optimal brain functioning and wellbeing to exist, positive emotions and experiences should overshadow negative emotions and experiences.
Enhance your Emotional Wellness to develop a more positive mindset by following some simple rules:
Article by Shruthi Rao
Clinical Psychologist, Kauvery Hospital
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