Positive psychology is an exciting and relatively new branch of psychology that identifies specific practices and behaviors shown to improve overall wellbeing and happiness.   The focus is on the positive, on what creates happiness and wellbeing rather than on the problem or what is not going well.  To improve the quality of our life, we need to pay attention to these practices.  

Overcoming problems does not in itself translate into happiness.  To increase our feelings of wellbeing another process is called for and that is to focus attention on specific activities, behaviors and practices that clearly enhance wellbeing and happiness. 

We know that gratitude is an antidote to feelings of lack and deprivation.  What is new is that practices such as these—when done on a regular basis—lift us from depression and anxiety.  Examples of the practices include meditation, gratitude, and random acts of kindness, active engagement in social relationships, forgiveness and savoring life’s experiences.

The practices of positive psychology are about creating greater meaning through a shift from the material world and what is in it for me to what I can contribute and be thankful for. 

By engaging in these activities we not only heighten our sense of wellbeing but we also overcome depression and anxiety.  In fact research shows that these practices are as effective as therapy and medication for treating anxiety and depression.  What great news!

Exercise:  Here is a nice easy exercise.  Before going to bed write three to five positive experience you had during the day.  Also write why you believe those good things happened.  Savor the experiences as you fall asleep.  Keep a journal by your bed to remind you to do it each evening.  Do it regularly and after a week or two, reflect on how you felt when you started and how you feel now.  Make this a daily practice.

I offer a six-week group for individuals and workshops for agency and business staff based on these researched practices.  The individual groups are small and start when six to eight register. We meet in my Hillcrest office.  For larger groups the training is tailored to your needs. Please contact me for further details.

"I learned so many beneficial techniques to help elevate and stabilize my emotions in the 6 week course David Ross provided on the Psychology of Happiness. The way this material was presented not only helps me individually but I will also utilize this material in my work with clients. I highly recommend it to others who want to help themselves or help their clients." Pam Highfill