PsychologyJuly 4, 2026

flourishing

/ˈflɜːrɪʃɪŋ/

Definition

A comprehensive state in which all aspects of a person’s life—including their individual mental well-being and the social and environmental contexts in which they live—are good.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'flourisshen,' originating from the Old French 'florir,' meaning to blossom or flower. It ultimately traces back to the Latin 'florere,' reflecting the root metaphor of a plant blooming at its peak.

In the news

In this article, the authors distinguish 'flourishing' as a broader concept than mental well-being, emphasizing that true human success includes the supportive communities and environments surrounding an individual. This concept serves as the ultimate goal in their proposed multidimensional model of health.

Mental illness, mental health, and mental well-being - npj Mental Health Research

Read the full article ↗

Nature

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