A study published on Apr. 10 in Nature Mental Health and led by Adelaide University and Be Well Co has reached an international consensus on the definition of positive mental wellbeing. The research involved 122 global experts from 11 disciplines who agreed on 19 dimensions of mental wellbeing, with near-unanimous agreement on six key factors essential to positive mental health.
The lack of a shared definition for 'mental wellbeing' has long challenged researchers, healthcare providers, and policymakers. This new consensus is expected to help standardize how mental wellbeing is measured, supported, and promoted across various sectors including healthcare, workplaces, and public policy.
Dr Matthew Iasiello from Adelaide University said, "By agreeing that positive mental health isn't a single feeling, but a combination of how we feel, how we function and how we connect with others, the study brings much‑needed clarity to the field." He added that having multiple definitions made it difficult to compare evidence or design effective policy: "Imagine if there were 150 different ways of measuring blood pressure – the results would be meaningless. That's why it's important to agree on what positive mental health is, and what it isn't."
The study determined that while factors such as physical health, income, housing, coping strategies and spirituality are important drivers of positive mental health, they do not define it directly. Importantly, researchers confirmed that experiencing positive mental health is possible even for those living with a diagnosed mental illness.
Dr Iasiello explained further: "Positive mental health isn't about feeling good all the time... It's about having a combination of emotional wellbeing, psychological functioning, and social connection that helps you live a meaningful manageable life even when things might be hard." He said this understanding allows individuals to recognize which aspects of their wellbeing may need support.
Co-researcher Dr Joep van Agteren said these findings are essential for guiding policy decisions as well as practical programs: "Workplaces government organisations and community groups often need help to build the conditions that help their people to thrive... We hope that this taxonomy can further strengthen the efforts of anyone who is trying to do their part in making people feel their best in Australia and beyond is worthwhile."
Senior author Associate Professor Dan Fassnacht from University of the Sunshine Coast concluded: "You can't build what you can't define... For the first time we have a scientifically agreed blueprint for what good mental health actually looks like – and that changes everything."
