What is Positive Psychology?

When we think about psychology, we tend to think about things like depression, bi-polar disorder and attention deficit disorder. But what about happiness? Dr Martin Seligman founded a branch of psychology he titled “Positive Psychology,” which focuses on what makes us happy, what creates the positive emotions that we feel. In the same way psychologists identify and treat seemingly negative disorders, Positive Psychology identifies how we can find meaning and satisfaction in life.

Why Positive Psychology for my CFS?

While those suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome experience extreme fatigue, muscle aches and pains, anxiety and depression, CFS doesn’t have to control your life. There are ways to live a full and happy life even while experiencing symptoms of CFS.

Positive Psychology focuses on what in life gives your purpose, drive and satisfaction, and how to introduce those things into your life, while avoiding the negative thoughts and self deprecating actions that many with CFS suffer.

It Sounds Hokey. What does Positive Psychology Involve?

Don’t worry. While the name may sound reminiscent of group hugs and teddy bears, the theory behind Positive Psychology involves identifying the aspects of your life that give you purpose and meaning. You can:

• Identify key character strengths

• Identify sources and levels of happiness

• Become aware of your levels of forgiveness, optimism, life satisfaction and perseverance

By being aware of these things, certain aspects of your life that may actually hurt you become apparent. If you can eliminate the negative, and focus on what gets you out of bed in the morning, while you won’t eliminate your CFS, you can work to manage the symptoms.

Authentic Happiness

Dr. Seligman’s website, www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu offers questionnaires which point out happiness levels, character strengths, depression levels and so much more. If you are seeing a therapist or psychologist, ask them if they are familiar with Positive Psychology and Authentic Happiness. If they are not, have them recommend someone who is. Or research it on your own. Positive Psychology is all about taking your life into your own hands by identifying what brings you happiness and meaning.

Combined with exercise therapy and diet, Positive Psychology can teach you techniques to help with symptoms of your CFS. Think about what positive changes you can make in your life and way of thinking and work to implement those changes in your life.

Learn more about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome here.

Sources:
http://www.apa.org/apags/profdev/pospsyc.html
http://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/Default.aspx#