Conceptual and Clinical Innovations of Well-being Therapy

Abstract

The evidence supporting the use of well-being therapy (WBT), a specific psychotherapeutic strategy for modulating psychological well-being, and its specific contribution when it is combined with other psychotherapeutic techniques is still limited. However, the insights gained by the use of WBT may unravel innovative approaches to assessment and treatment of mood and anxiety disorders. An important characteristic of WBT is self-observation of psychological well-being associated with specific homework. Another important feature of WBT is the assumption that imbalances in well-being and distress may vary from one illness to another, and from patient to patient. A final characteristic is its reference to the concept of euthymia, where lack of mood disturbances is associated with positive affect and psychological well-being (flexibility, consistency, and resilience). Progress can be achieved by modifying our clinical approach to mental disorders, and by promoting self-observation of psychological well-being and the pursuit of a state of euthymia.