A Delphi consensus study on the dimensions of positive mental health

Abstract

Inconsistent conceptualization of terms such as positive mental health, flourishing and mental well-being across disciplines hinders reliable measurement, intervention design and policy. Here we sought expert consensus on a preliminary taxonomy of positive mental health dimensions to standardize conceptualization using the Delphi method. We surveyed experts (n = 122) across 11 disciplines relevant to positive mental health via 3 iterative rounds. The first round invited experts to rate the suitability of 26 initial dimensions (identified in prior reviews) on relevance for a taxonomy, while subsequent rounds invited expert-suggested dimensions and rating of dimensions as drivers or outcomes of positive mental health. Nineteen dimensions achieved consensus (≥75% agreement) for inclusion in the preliminary taxonomy of positive mental health. Six dimensions exceeded 90% agreement, including ‘meaning and purpose’, ‘life satisfaction’, ‘self-acceptance’, ‘connection’, ‘autonomy’ and ‘happiness’. This taxonomy promotes standardized conceptualization and cross-disciplinary collaboration, addressing fragmentation to enhance interventions and policy.