The University of Bristol’s ‘Science of Happiness’ course has shown to significantly enhance student wellbeing, but the benefits are transient without sustained practice of evidence-based habits like gratitude and meditation. Professor Bruce Hood likens maintaining mental health to physical fitness, emphasizing the necessity for continuous effort. Launched in 2018, this course, unique in the UK, imparts insights from psychology and neuroscience to promote happiness. While participants initially experienced a 10 to 15% uplift in wellbeing, only those who continued applying the course principles maintained this improvement over two years. The study, detailed in the journal Higher Education, underscores the importance of ongoing implementation of happiness-promoting practices, such as focusing on others and cultivating gratitude, to combat negative mental states effectively.
Can You Learn How to Be Happy?
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The ideas expressed here are solely the opinions of the author and are not researched or verified by AGEIST LLC, or anyone associated with AGEIST LLC. This material should not be construed as medical advice or recommendation, it is for informational use only. We encourage all readers to discuss with your qualified practitioners the relevance of the application of any of these ideas to your life. The recommendations contained herein are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You should always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before starting any new treatment or stopping any treatment that has been prescribed for you by your physician or other qualified health provider. Please call your doctor or 911 immediately if you think you may have a medical or psychiatric emergency.