Abstract
Background: College students face challenges along the well-being spectrum, ranging from flourishing, which represents academic thriving and optimal well-being, to languishing, which represents mental health challenges such as anxiety and stress. Positive psychology can improve the complete well-being spectrum for students in higher education.
Objective: This study aimed to develop a comprehensive guideline, "Positive Higher Education," to improve student flourishing while decreasing the risk of mental health issues. The guideline intends to assist college leaders and educators in enhancing students' overall well-being.
Methods: A literature review and an applied resources review were conducted to identify relevant positive psychology approaches and applications in higher education settings.
Results: The reviews' findings informed the development of a comprehensive and consolidated applied guideline encompassing positive psychology approaches such as positive psychology interventions, positive teaching, facilitation (coaching, mentoring, counseling), and leadership. These approaches contribute to creating a positive institution by implementing positive education tenets.
Conclusions: This project addresses the literature gap and offers a practical framework for promoting student well-being in higher education. Implementing the guideline will benefit not only students but also leaders and educators, enabling universities to address the problems of practice on the student's well-being continuum and ultimately improve students' academic success.