Maintaining Positive Mental Health in a Turbulent World

Abstract

A turbulent modern environment including the COVID-19 pandemic, wars, climate crises, and rising societal tensions, have provoked a worldwide mental health crisis, disrupting social connections and psychological well-being. Such events create significant mental health processes, and the ability to identify proactive strategies to maintain optimal psychological functioning is paramount. Positive Psychology investigates phenomena enabling individuals and communities to flourish. A systematic review of the literature indicates that specific Positive Psychology strategies promote mental health in troubled circumstances. These strategies include gratitude, meaningfulness and purpose, tragic optimism, human connection, kindness, self-compassion, and nature contact. Evidence of their effectiveness during crises is presented. Their adoption is encouraged in personal and professional development and organisational training, individually and collectively. Though consistent use of the recommended strategies can optimise psych fortitude, the thorough recommendations remain preliminary until further analyses and confirmatory study designs provide more definitive guidance.