'Well-Being Therapy'

Q: I’ve heard a lot about ‘Well-Being Therapy’. Sounds fascinating - please tell me more.

A: ‘Well Being Therapy’ is a unique approach that focuses on positive experiences rather than just looking at what is wrong. It was developed by Giovanni Fava, M.D.

Patients keep an active diary and write the things in their life, past and present, that are going well. Their strengths, their successes. From there, they are then better able and stronger to look at what happened that stopped their good feeling.

And to do something about it, usually through cognitive restructuring.

This focus on well-being instead of distress leads to a more positive view of oneself. One starts to flourish, gains more resilience, is more willing to take on challenges, has better relationships. A sense of self- determination; a belief that life has meaning and purpose.

In the words of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson:

“Birth is G-d saying that you matter”.

We are not here by accident. Each person matters, is irreplaceable. And we each have our unique mission to fulfill. Uncover what that is -and - go for it!