Flourishing Through Art: Effects of a PERMA‑Based Art Creation Program on Well‑Being in Hong Kong University Students

Introduction: University students in Hong Kong frequently experience high levels of academic, social, and familial stress. However, systemic barriers such as high costs and perceived social stigma often deter them from seeking help, particularly through traditional interventions. Against this backdrop, the present study evaluates the efficacy of a low-stigma, PERMA-based five-day preventive initiative that integrates structured artmaking to promote participant well-being.
Materials and Methods: Using a pretest–posttest control group design, the study examined the efficacy of a five-day program delivered to 17 Hong Kong university students, compared with 21 acquaintances who did not participate (N = 38). Well-being was measured with the PERMA-Profiler. The program comprises four creative art workshops (collage, clay molding, collaborative drawing, and narrative metaphor exercises), culminating in a participant-led virtual exhibition.
Results: Consistent with the hypotheses, a two-way mixed ANOVA revealed significant time (pretest vs. posttest) × condition (experimental vs. control) interactions for multiple PERMA-Profiler factors. Compared with age-matched controls (n = 21), the experimental group (n = 17) showed notable improvements in overall well-being and physical health, as well as a considerable decrease in negative emotion and perceived loneliness.
Conclusions: These findings support the feasibility of enhancing university students’ mental health through a low-stigma, art-based preventive approach. Despite limitations, the results highlight the potential of integrating innovative positive psychology programs into institutional curricula to foster resilience among Hong Kong university students.