The science of happiness is the focus of a series of talks to help teach people how to be happier. The Bristol Happiness lectures are being held at Bristol University this Saturday [19 May].
The talks from leading academics/practitioners Dr Chris Johnstone, Positive Psychology Tutor at Bristol University, and Dr Ilona Boniwell, Senior Lecturer in Positive Psychology at the University of East London, will reveal their findings and proven strategies for happier living.
Using methods of positive psychology both speakers will explore the science of happiness by drawing on research that deepens our understanding of what helps promote positive mood states and desirable human qualities.
At the first lecture, Positive psychology in a nutshell Dr Boniwell will discuss the latest research findings and thinking on the topics of happiness, optimism and motivation.
Dr Johnstone will explore how positive psychology can be applied in healthcare, education, the workplace and life, in the second lecture entitled Practical applications.
Dr Johnstone said: "The key insight of positive psychology is that we can learn ways to become happier. There is also good evidence that learnable self-help strategies can reduce people's risk of depression. This has enormous significance, as we live at a time of rising levels of depression and we need to move beyond relying on tablets as a main response to this.
“Alcohol consumption is often used as a way of boosting mood. It works as a quick fix, but in excess makes people more depressed in the long term. I teach self-help mood improvement strategies so people don’t have to rely on chemicals.”
The Bristol Happiness lectures, sponsored by TLV Colour Printers, Yate, take place from 2 to 5 pm on Saturday 19 May at Bristol University, Powell Lecture Theatre, H H Wills Physics Laboratory, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol.
Tickets cost £20, £10 for concessions and are also available on the door. For further information contact the University’s Centre for Public Engagement tel (0117) 928 7172 or email cont-ed@bristol.ac.uk.