The Importance Of Positive Mental Health

Health is described as ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’ (World Health Organisation, 1998a).. The WHO define the concept of positive wellbeing as synonymous with the term mental health, consistently stating that ‘mental health is defined as a state of wellbeing…’ (WHO, 2014). Historically, humankind have sought the determinants of health, mental health and wellbeing (Ackrill, 1975). In recent years we have returned to the foundations of philosophy and psychology and adopted the positive concept of positive mental health (Vaillant, 2012). Positive mental health can be described as the ‘scientific study of those positive strengths and virtues that enable people and communities to reach optimal levels of health, happiness and wellbeing (Seligman & Csikszentmihalyi, 2000). As accepted within the literature, positive mental health is positively associated with wellbeing, and is considered an essential

Specifically within third-level and higher education settings, there is a unique opportunity to develop the skills and capabilities of individuals to prevent ill mental health experiences (Holdsworth, Turner, & Scott-Young, 2017). Although higher education can be an environment which is positive and supports student learning, for some there is risk and potential adverse consequences (Bewick, Koutsopouloub, Miles, Slaad, & Barkham, 2010). One study in Ireland highlighted students attending third level colleges were more likely to be involved in risk taking behaviours and less likely to use positive coping strategies when dealing with anxiety and depression (Hope, Dring, & Dring, 2005). Therefore, college students represent an important and distinct population with regard to mental health and suicide prevention (Karwig, Chambers, & Murphy,