Optimism

Health psychologists have found that an optimistic attitude and behavior are linked to better reports of physical health and faster recovery from illnesses. Studies show that usually people with an optimistic attitude return to normal recreational, social, and sexual activities within six months after diagnosis and treatment of a serious illness. Health psychologists have found new evidence showing that optimism assists people in remembering information about their own health risk behaviors; this in turn helps them over time to avoiding behaviors that threaten their health.

The following are links pertaining to optimism:

• Learned Optimism - This web site explains that an optimistic attitude may not only help avoid depression, but it may actually improve physical health.
• Optimism Test - You can test yourself to see if you are an optimist or not.
• Optimism - Self-Fulfilling Prophecy - The difference between the effects of optimism and pessimism have been researched for more than 30 years. Studies show that optimists are all around happier in their lives.

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