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