Positive psychology offers approaches that go beyond reducing health symptoms toward building the conditions for genuine flourishing.
PERMA and Health
Martin Seligman's PERMA model identifies five elements of wellbeing relevant to health:
- Positive emotions: Deliberately cultivating joy, gratitude, and pleasure alongside health treatment
- Engagement: Flow states that create absorption and counter health
- Relationships: Quality connections that buffer against health
- Meaning: Purpose that persists despite health
- Achievement: Progress toward goals, even while managing health
Signature Strengths and Health
Research shows that using your top character strengths in new ways is a robust health intervention. The VIA Character Strengths survey identifies your strengths.
Integrating Positive Psychology with Health Treatment
Positive psychology doesn't replace health treatment — it complements it. Treating health removes obstacles; positive psychology builds the structure of a fulfilling life.