Positive Emotions Training (PoET) as an Online Intervention to Improve Mental Health: A Feasibility Study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Positive psychology interventions are known to have an impact on mental health as well as on a number of beneficial characteristics like optimism, gratitude and self-efficacy. The Positive Emotions Training (PoET) is one of the first holistic training programs covering eleven positive psychology constructs. The goal of this study was to test PoET’s feasibility in the general population and to assess possible effects on positive and negative mental health factors. Additionally, possible effects on optimism, gratitude, happiness, resilience, and self-efficacy were examined. Methods: The sample (n = 101) was allocated to PoET (n = 55) or control (n= 46) that did not receive treatment. Participants in the PoET group completed two training sessions (3.5 hours each) that were conducted in an online format with groups of about 30 people. All participants completed positive and negative mental health measures at the beginning of the first training session and at the beginning of the second one as well as 30 days after the second session. Two-factorial repeated measures ANOVAs were conducted to test for possible effects of PoET on mental health. Results: There were significant effects of PoET on depression and anxiety symptoms as well as on optimism. Non-significant, but descriptive changes were found for positive mental health scores, stress, gratitude, happiness, resilience, and self-efficacy. There were no significant effects for the control group. Conclusions: Results indicate that PoET is an applicable intervention for improving mental health in the general population. Trial registration: Retrospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov on 21/02/2023 (Identifier/Trial registration number: NCT05737251)