The happiness iceberg concept illustrates that being happy has both visible and deeper layers in a person's life. On the surface are the easily recognizable sources of happiness, while beneath are deeper factors, such as personal values and life purpose. Young people may not always recognize both types, but with the right support, they can learn to identify and appreciate these influences on their happiness.
The Happiness Iceberg worksheet is an engaging activity that encourages clients to identify actions or habits that spark positive feelings. Featuring the tip of the iceberg labeled "Happiness" above water and the rest of the iceberg below the surface, clients will need to write down habits, actions, and mindsets that will improve their mood. To guide them, the worksheet also includes a sample list that they can take inspiration from.
Completing this activity helps kids and teens understand and value the idea that happiness is something they can choose and work toward. This realization, with the use of our Happiness Mindsets handout, can empower them to actively pursue things that will benefit them long-term.
Adults caring for them can offer support by beginning the activity with a quiet reflection time. During reflection, kids and teens need to think about what brings them joy and how they can achieve it.
This worksheet pairs well with our Happiness Iceberg handout, which provides a visually appealing illustration of the happiness iceberg to support understanding of the concept.
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Want more resources like this? Check out our full catalog of depression worksheets and handouts.
References:
- Rastelli, C., Calabrese, L., Miller, C., Raffone, A., & De Pisapia, N. (2021). The Art of Happiness: An Explorative Study of a Contemplative Program for Subjective Well-Being. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 600982. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.600982
- Brockmann, H., & Delhey, J. (2009). Introduction: The dynamics of happiness and the dynamics of happiness research. Social Indicators Research, 97(1), 1-5. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11205-009-9561-3
- Lomas, T., & VanderWeele, T. J. (2021). The complex creation of happiness: Multidimensional conditionality in the drivers of happy people and societies. The Journal of Positive Psychology, 18(1), 15-33. https://doi.org/10.1080/17439760.2021.1991453
