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