Positive Mental Health from the perspective of Iranian society: A qualitative study [version 1; referees: 2 approved]

Background: According to the World Health Organization, mental health relates, not only to the absence of mental disorder, but also to Positive Mental Health. Studies have shown that promoting positive mental health, not only reduces the prevalence and incidence of mental disorders, but also affects...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Arash Mirabzadeh, Monir Baradaran Eftekhari, Katayoun Falahat, Homeira Sajjadi, Meroe Vameghi, Gholamreza Ghaedamini Harouni
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: F1000 Research Ltd 2018-01-01
Series:F1000Research
Subjects:
Online Access:https://f1000research.com/articles/7-103/v1
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Summary:Background: According to the World Health Organization, mental health relates, not only to the absence of mental disorder, but also to Positive Mental Health. Studies have shown that promoting positive mental health, not only reduces the prevalence and incidence of mental disorders, but also affects the process of treatment and reduces related burden. However, this concept has different interpretations in different cultures, and in many societies, mental health is still considered the absence of mental illness. Thus, the present study was conducted to provide an in-depth understanding of Iranian adults` perspective towards the concept of positive mental health. Materials and Methods: In the present qualitative study, eight focus group discussions (6 to 8 adults in each session) were held consisting of 30 to 60 year-old men and women from Tehran. Data were analyzed in "DeDoose" qualitative software using content analysis. Results: According to the data obtained, participants found no difference between positive mental health and mental health, mostly equating it to the absence of mental disorders and having positive energy, peace in and satisfaction with life. According to the results, positive mental health has four domains of emotional/psychological, spiritual, social, and life skills. Conclusion: Understanding an individual’s positive mental health concepts culturally and providing appropriate community based programs can significantly promote the mental health of the community.
ISSN:2046-1402