Despite individuals receiving successful treatments of psychopathology, low levels of wellbeing may linger in individuals, which can become a significant risk factor for more psychological distress. Incorporating PPIs into one's treatment can be greatly beneficial as it acts as a buffer against psychological symptomatology, as well as turn these strategies into positive daily habits and preventing future relapse for formerly depressed individuals.

University of Illinois at Chicago

A set of instructions, activities, and strategies that aim to uplift one's wellbeing, boost positive feelings, cognitions, and behaviors. PPI's typically focus on savoring, gratitude, promoting positive interpersonal relationships, kindness, and pursuing hope and meaning. 

Positive Psychology Interventions (PPIs)

Chakhssi, F., Kraiss, J. T., Sommers-Spijkerman, M., & Bohlmeijer, E. T. (2018). The effect of positive psychology interventions on well-being and distress in clinical samples with psychiatric or somatic disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC psychiatry, 18(1), 1-17.

The effect of positive psychology interventions on well-being and distress in clinical samples with psychiatric or somatic disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PPIs are needed even after successful treatments of psychopathology

Eudaimonic happiness refers to well-being that focuses on meaning, purpose, and self-realization (i.e., "I feel that life is very rewarding"). Hedonic happiness refers to well-being in terms of attaining pleasure and avoiding pain (i.e., "I often experience joy and elation"). A number of emotional outcomes of PPIs fall into both eudaimonic and hedonic categories. 

Eudaimonic vs. Hedonic Happiness 

Based on a meta-analysis that investigated a number of studies utilizing PPIs with their participants, the combined results of several studies revealed that PPIs can significantly enhance one's wellbeing and are effective for treating depressive symptoms. Moreover, the effect sizes of the combined studies were medium-sized, signifying that PPIs work well. 

Effectiveness of Positive Psychology Interventions on wellbeing and depression symptomatology 

In addition to learning how to cope with negatives, positive psychology intervention strategies are utilized in order to increase wellbeing and benefit from appreciating and attending to life's positive attributes. PPI strategies include but are not limited to writing gratitude letters, practicing optimistic thinking, revisiting positive experiences/situations, engaging in enjoyable activities, and socializing. 

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