Harvard students, staff, and faculty are invited to Redesigning Calm, a hands-on workshop on how spaces affect mental and physical well-being. Use art to imagine environments that ease stress and restore focus. RSVP today: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3JBCrhqbK6RvfQG

Honored to host Dr. Emiliana Simon-Thomas of UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center for our Virtues for Well-being series, sharing the Big Joy Project’s 7-day “micro-acts” to boost happiness and connection. Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZMTn5UunpU #Wellbeing #Joy

How might healthcare change if clinicians, public health leaders and faith communities worked together? Drs. Leesa Lin and K. “Vish” Viswanath explore this in Nature Health: https://www.nature.com/articles/s44360-026-00063-8 #populationhealth #healthsystems

Reminder: Sign up for THIS WEDNESDAY’s talk with Dr. Emiliana Simon-Thomas (1–1:50pm ET, FXB G13 + online). Learn how the Big JOY Project’s micro-acts can boost joy and well-being. https://hsph.harvard.edu/health-happiness/events/virtues-for-well-being-a-seminar-with-dr-emiliana-simon-thomas/

To those of you who missed last Wednesday's seminar, "Born to Flourish", with Dr. Richard Davidson, don't worry! You can watch the event recording on our YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWKe5L0Q0p0

All members of the Harvard community are invited to Redesigning Calm, a hands-on workshop exploring how our surroundings shape mental and physical well-being. Use art to reimagine spaces that ease stress and restore focus. RSVP TODAY! https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3JBCrhqbK6RvfQG

What shapes our happiness—circumstances, genes, or choices? Learn the answer from Dr. Simon-Thomas at her March 11 seminar: https://hsph.harvard.edu/health-happiness/events/virtues-for-well-being-a-seminar-with-dr-emiliana-simon-thomas/

Thrilled to celebrate "Revealing: The Underrated Power of Oversharing" by Center Affiliate Scientist Dr. Leslie John, James E. Burke Professor at Harvard Business School. Grateful to interns Shannon Constable, Claire Dirks, and Rebecca Atholz for their support: https://www.lesliekjohn.com/

Last chance to RSVP for “Born to Flourish” this Wednesday, Feb 25, 1–1:50 p.m. (online only) with Dr. Richard Davidson—a global leader in the science of well-being and the emotional brain. RSVP: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7ZMfB0gs14zVrgi

Mar 11, 1–1:50pm ET (FXB G13 + online): Join Dr. Emiliana Simon-Thomas, Science Director at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, to explore the Big JOY Project—simple science-based “micro-acts” to boost joy + connection. RSVP: https://hsph.harvard.edu/health-happiness #Wellbeing #MentalHealth

Modern medicine is secular and scientific, but many patients draw on religion to understand illness, suffering, care and recovery. New Nature Health article by Drs. Leesa Lin and K. “Vish” Viswanath: https://www.nature.com/articles/s44360-026-00063-8 #wellbeing #healthcare

Proud to share that our Center Director, Dr. K. “Vish” Viswanath, served as a Keynote Speaker at the 9th Joint Seminar of Hiroshima University & NISE, advancing dialogue on equity, communication, inclusion, and wellbeing across cultures.

Religion can influence health through social support, behaviors and beliefs, and may also shape stigma, information and care decisions. New Nature Health article by Dr. Leesa Lin and Dr. K. “Vish” Viswanath: https://www.nature.com/articles/s44360-026-00063-8 #publichealth #religion

Thrilled to welcome our newest Research Assistant, Olivia Song, an MPH student at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. She studies how health, housing, and the built environment shape well-being. #PublicHealth #Research #HealthEquity #HarvardChanSchool

Last chance! Applications for our 2026 Summer Internship are due Sunday, Feb 1. Spend your summer at Harvard advancing health and happiness science with leading scholars. Apply now: https://hsph.harvard.edu/research/health-happiness/summer-internship-program/ #HarvardInternship #SummerInternship

What if well-being were a trainable skill? Join neuroscientist and bestselling author Dr. Richard Davidson for “Born to Flourish” on Wed, Feb 25, 1–1:50 PM, FXB G13 + online. Details & RSVP: https://hsph.harvard.edu/health-happiness/events/virtues-for-well-being-a-seminar-with-dr-richard-davidson/

Center affiliate Dr. Kirsten Davison and colleagues examined how #empowerment theory can strengthen community-based research partnerships. https://jprm.scholasticahq.com/article/137015-leveraging-psychological-empowerment-in-community-based-participatory-research-a-case-study #HealthEquity

A recent study by Center affiliate Dr. Eric Kim and colleagues explored the connections between life satisfaction, stress, and health. Read it here: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fhea0001538 #LifeSatisfaction #StressManagement #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #HealthResearch

Feb 25, 1–1:50 PM FXB G13/online: Join us for Born to Flourish with Dr. Richard Davidson on how mental training boosts resilience and well-being. RSVP: hsph.harvard.edu/health-happi... #Neuroscience #MentalHealth

A study by Center affiliate Dr. Ichiro Kawachi and others found that relative deprivation is a key psychosocial factor undermining human health and flourishing. Learn more here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0277953625008688?via%3Dihub #Inequality #MentalHealth #Wellbeing

Feb 4, 1–1:50 PM in Kresge 202A: Join our well‑being workshop with Anya Greenberg, SM ’26, on how TTRPGs like Dungeons & Dragons 🎲 can boost confidence, connection, and well‑being. Lunch provided 🍽️. Harvard‑ID holders welcome. RSVP: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6sN4d1zQW98Olgi

A recent study by Center affiliate Dr. Ichiro Kawachi and colleagues reviewed social isolation trends in 159 countries over the last 16 years. Learn more about their findings here: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2838875 #Loneliness #SocialIsolation #MentalHealth

Check out Center affiliate Dr. Glorian Sorensen’s new book, which offers practical, research-based strategies for creating healthier and more supportive workplaces: https://academic.oup.com/book/61421 #WorkplaceWellbeing #OccupationalHealth #Leadership #EmployeeWellness

Grateful for our amazing Research Assistants and Student Engagement Committee! Your passion and creativity power the Lee Kum Sheung Center for Health and Happiness. Proud to celebrate this team with Director Viswanath. #PublicHealth #MentalHealth #Wellbeing #PositivePsychology #StudentLeadership

As we say goodbye to 2025 and look ahead to 2026—our 10th year—we’re grateful to everyone who’s joined our journey. Your support drives our work to advance positive health, happiness, well-being, and health equity in research, practice, and policy. #PublicHealth #HealthEquity

✨ Reminder! TOMORROW, 1–1:50PM, Kresge 202A: Join our well-being workshop with Jeniece Brock, DrPh ’27! Make a vision board & plan a joyful 2026. ☕🍪 Hot chocolate, cookies, & pizza served! 👉 RSVP now: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bkqT6E9MpeAMTuC

Applications are now open for our 2026 Summer Internship Program. Learn more from past interns here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qmr06ia4fY Then visit our website & apply today: https://hsph.harvard.edu/research/health-happiness/summer-internship-program/ #harvardinternship #summerinternship

We’re excited to welcome two Harvard Chan School MPH candidates as our new RAs: Devan McClain, who brings experience in health communication and rural and global health, and Abigail Palaza, whose work focuses on healthy aging and clinical research. Welcome aboard!

On Nov 20, Center Student Engagement Committee member Kris Berg, MPH ’26, led our first well-being workshop: “Working With Your Brain.” Participants learned neurodiversity-affirming strategies to ease overwhelm, boost focus, and build sustainable motivation.

Learn from Dr. K. “Vish” Viswanath and Dr. Rifat Atun in a 6‑week online course on Public Health Communication and Advocacy. Build key communication and advocacy skills. Register by Dec 11: https://execedonline.hsph.harvard.edu/public-health-communication-and-advocacy

This week, Colleen McGrath, our 2025 Dissertation Research Award recipient, presented her work on prostate cancer survivorship and how social connectedness and caregiver support shape outcomes. Congratulations, Colleen! #CancerSurvivorship #PublicHealth #Caregiving #SocialConnection #HealthEquity

Next Monday, December 8th, from 12-2 in the Kresge atrium, the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences' Community and Belonging committee invites all students, staff, and faculty of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to join us for an origami-making workshop!

Applications are due TOMORROW for our Postdoctoral Research Fellow position, so apply today! https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/15436 #Postdoc #AcademicJobs #ResearchJobs #PublicHealth #Wellbeing #Hiring

Dr. Sara Lazar published a paper exploring how meditation can help scientists align personal values with ethical scientific practices, and recommending practical mindfulness-based programs to support integrity in research. Read it here: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12671-025-02646-0

Want to know how mindfulness can boost your mental and physical health? 🌱 Check out this video featuring Center affiliate and renowned mindfulness expert Dr. Sara Lazar, as she dives into the science and benefits of mindfulness practice. Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SEcbpxtTQ4&t=2s

Earlier this month, Assistant Director Kelsey Torres and Program and Research Coordinator Karina Duffy presented about our Center to the Mississippi Delta Scholars, a program advancing health and well-being in the Delta through research, engagement, and leadership.

Reminder: RSVP for our well-being workshop TOMORROW, 1–1:50 PM in Kresge 502! Learn neurodiversity-affirming strategies to manage stress & boost motivation. Fidget toys provided! Open to Harvard community: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cPk9z7Xejq5FzPo

Last week, Richard Weissbourd discussed how our culture’s focus on achievement and happiness can undermine children’s moral growth and well-being. He highlighted the importance of nurturing kids’ moral and social development. Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtJPtj6-J4w

We're hiring! The Center seeks a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to advance research on positive health, happiness, and health equity. Doctorate required. Full-time, hybrid. Apply by Dec 2: https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/15436 #Postdoc #AcademicJobs #ResearchJobs #PublicHealth

✨ On Wednesday, Dec 3, from 1–1:50PM in Kresge 202A, join our well-being workshop with Jeniece Brock, DrPh ’27! Create a vision board, clarify your values, and plan for a joyful 2026. ☕🍪 Hot chocolate & cookies provided! RSVP today: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bkqT6E9MpeAMTuC

Happening THIS WEDNESDAY! Join us Nov 12, 1–1:50 PM (FXB G12 & online) for our Virtues for Well-being Seminar with Richard Weissbourd. Don’t miss insights on fostering moral development and community in children. RSVP today! https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_40KyEHyDv1MLG0S

Join us Nov 20, 1–1:50 PM in Kresge 502 for a well-being workshop led by Kris Berg, MPH ’26! Learn neurodiversity-affirming ways to manage stress & boost motivation. Fidget toys provided. Open to all. RSVP: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cPk9z7Xejq5FzPo

Don’t forget! The next Virtues for Well-being seminar with Richard Weissbourd will be held on Wednesday, November 12th, 1–1:50 PM (FXB G12 & online). Join us for actionable insights on fostering moral development in children. RSVP today! https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_40KyEHyDv1MLG0S

To all Harvard faculty and research scientists: applications for our 2026 Positive Health Grants are due November 21st. Learn more and apply: https://hsph.harvard.edu/research/health-happiness/funding-opportunities/innovations-in-positive-health-grant-funding-opportunity/

Director Viswanath presented a new case study on Lee Kum Kee Group’s “Si Li Ji Ren” philosophy and its impact on employee well-being. Read key findings: https://hsph.harvard.edu/health-happiness/news/happiness-and-well-being-in-the-workplace-the-management-philosophy-of-the-lee-kum-kee-group/

Attention Harvard Doctoral Students: we are offering up to $2,500 in funding to support your positive health-related dissertation! Applications are due by November 21st. Learn more and apply here: https://hsph.harvard.edu/research/health-happiness/funding-opportunities/dissertation-research-awards/

How do we raise caring, moral children amid today’s focus on achievement? Join Richard Weissbourd for our Virtues for Well-being seminar—Nov 12, 1-1:50PM, FXB G12 & online. All are welcome. https://hsph.harvard.edu/health-happiness/events/virtues-for-well-being-a-seminar-with-dr-richard-weissbourd/

Missed Dr. Sara Konrath’s seminar on the science of sustainable giving? Catch the recording on our YouTube! Learn how empathy and generosity improve well-being—and how to give meaningfully without burnout. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uM6VHXkdzBY #Empathy #Wellbeing #Generosity #MentalHealth

Reminder: Join us TOMORROW for our Virtues for Well-being event with Dr. Sara Konrath! Learn how empathy and generosity boost well-being, with tips for sustainable giving. RSVP today: https://harvard.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6hPMAV8B8flld0a #Wellbeing #Empathy #Generosity #MentalHealth

Yesterday, we partnered with the Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences (SBS) to host a Fall Social! It was inspiring to connect with so many dedicated SBS students. Thanks to Drs. Brynn Austin and Vish Viswanath for their thoughtful remarks.