What is the Origin of Psychological Wellbeing?

The formal study of psychological wellbeing emerged in the mid-20th century, shifting the focus of psychology from merely treating mental illness to actively understanding and promoting human flourishing. This concept integrates various theories of subjective happiness, eudaimonic life, and emotional regulation. Its connection to the endocrine system is a modern clinical realization, emphasizing the biological roots of mental health.

What is the Mechanism of Psychological Wellbeing?

Hormones and neurotransmitters serve as the chemical mediators linking psychological state to physiological function. For instance, adequate thyroid hormone is essential for neurotransmitter synthesis and mood regulation, while balanced cortisol secretion ensures an appropriate, non-pathological stress response. The mechanism involves the HPA axis, where chronic stress leads to dysregulated cortisol patterns that can impair hippocampal function and emotional processing, directly compromising psychological wellbeing.

Psychological Wellbeing ∞ Area

Psychological Wellbeing

Meaning

Psychological wellbeing is a multifaceted state characterized by a sense of life satisfaction, emotional stability, effective coping mechanisms, and the capacity to function productively and contribute to one’s community. It is a critical component of holistic health, intricately linked to physical health through the bidirectional communication of the neuroendocrine and immune systems. Optimal hormonal balance, particularly in cortisol, thyroid, and sex hormones, is a non-negotiable physiological foundation for sustained psychological resilience.