In this insightful presentation, Dr. Sundas Saboor, a doctoral student at the University of Michigan, explores the effectiveness of Positive Psychology Interventions (PPIs) in improving mental health among children, adolescents, and young adults. Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials, the study reveals that digital PPIs—such as web-based and smartphone tools—significantly enhance well-being by boosting key psychological factors like purpose, gratitude, and hope, while also reducing stress and negative emotions. While the findings are promising, Dr. Saboor highlights the need for further research to tailor these interventions to meet the diverse needs of global populations. This presentation sheds light on the growing role of digital tools in addressing the increasing mental health challenges faced by young people today. Read the paper: https://mental.jmir.org/2024/1/e56045

About Dr. Sundas Saboor: Dr. Saboor is a physician from Pakistan and a doctoral student in the Department of Health Behavior and Health Education at the University of Michigan. She holds an MPH from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health with a focus on Maternal and Child Health. Her research interests include global health, AI in health behavior change, and Muslim women’s health.

​About Dr. Laura Marciano: Dr. Marciano is a Research Associate at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, specializing in the intersection of digital media use and well-being. She leads the HappyB and HappyB2.0 projects, which investigate the relationship between smartphone use, social media, and mental health in young people. A passionate science communicator, she has also authored the book Smartphone: Ally or Enemy?