What is it about?

This article focusses on Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (1934–2021) and his work on flow to bring interest and understanding to this exciting and developing area of mental health nursing practice. The practical activities provided in the article will help the reader increase their own awareness of flow to develop its use and transferability within their own life

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Why is it important?

Csikszentmihalyi’s concept of flow has not yet been adopted in the training of mental health nurses, their continuing professional development or as reflective practice in their daily activity, despite encouraging evidence that it would be a useful addition. Therefore it makes sense to explore its potential more fully.

Perspectives

Csikszentmihalyi used his insight to assist others in developing their capacity for happiness and contentment. He has inspired countless other academics to continue his work and acknowledge the experience of flow. He has shared his own moments of flow, enriching humanity with extended understanding of the human condition and wellbeing. Mental health nurses with high levels of wellbeing are essential to the effective functioning of care services. They will bring stability, continue to develop strong collaborative associations, are more likely to think creatively, be adaptable and have occupational longevity. They are more likely to role-model self-confidence and demonstrate leadership qualities when in flow states. This can only benefit clinical teams and the organisation overall.

Mrs Jan Macfarlane
University of Bolton

Read the Original

This page is a summary of: Positive psychology pioneers: Mihaly Csiksentmihalyi's power and potential to influence mental health nursing, British Journal of Mental Health Nursing, May 2022, Mark Allen Group,
DOI: 10.12968/bjmh.2022.0012.
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