Positive indicator of mental health

Abstract

The promotion of mental health requires a different approach, centred on the positive pole of the health-illness process; the prevention of disorders also requires promoting protective resources to face weaknesses. Approaching mental health from the positive perspective requires the construction of positive indicators that allow the process to be described and become ways of monitoring preventive and promotion interventions. The evaluation of positive indicators of mental health is a demand that transcends mental health itself, is located in the field of public health and calls on social practices. The construction of positive indicators of mental health has been carried out from different theoretical models and perspectives. Mental health, well-being and happiness are three theoretical references that have led the topic. The salutogenic model offers the sense of coherence construct, and the positive perspective in psychology is currently the most productive terrain in this regard. It concludes on the need for conceptual delimitation and integration from each theoretical reference, the development of valid and reliable instruments and a greater amount of empirical evidence. It is suggested to use the benefits of qualitative methodology.