Researchers Advocate for Optimism and Healthy Coping in Various Situations
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Synopsis
A recent study emphasizes the importance of cultivating optimism and learning to cope flexibly to maintain mental health. Researchers from Syracuse and Michigan State University found that optimism fosters resilience during challenging times, such as the pandemic, while lower pessimism is associated with healthier behaviors.
Key Takeaways
- Optimism can enhance mental health in stressful situations.
- Lower pessimism correlates with safer health behaviors.
- Optimists are more resilient and less anxious.
- Physical activity and social support are higher among optimists.
- Problem-solving skills improve with a positive mindset.
New Delhi, Feb 23 (NationPress) Cultivating optimism and mastering adaptive coping strategies can significantly aid in preserving and enhancing mental health across various circumstances, as revealed by a recent study.
In light of social isolation, health anxieties, and economic uncertainty, feelings of fear and anxiety have become commonplace for many individuals, according to the research published in the Journal of Research in Personality.
A team of scholars from Syracuse University and Michigan State University investigated the personal traits that enable individuals to navigate prolonged stressors like the pandemic.
Under the leadership of Jeewon Oh, an assistant professor of psychology at Syracuse University’s College of Arts and Sciences, the researchers examined how optimism and pessimism shape overall well-being.
The research utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study, a comprehensive panel study that collects data from a nationally representative group of Americans aged 50 and older.
The team analyzed how individuals' mindsets impacted their psychological and physical health during trying times.
Among their significant findings, they discovered that heightened optimism fosters resilience and well-being when confronting stressors like the pandemic, while reduced pessimism correlates with healthier behaviors.
“The pandemic brought about numerous changes, and we aimed to uncover more about personality traits that can assist individuals in managing persistent and uncontrollable stressors like the pandemic. We focused on optimism, as it encourages proactive behavior,” stated Oh.
Since optimists tend to perceive stressful situations positively, they are more inclined to confront issues head-on or adapt when circumstances are beyond their control.
Both optimism and pessimism were found to have distinct relationships with psychological well-being. Individuals who exhibited greater optimism and less pessimism experienced lower levels of worry, stress, and loneliness, and demonstrated increased resilience.
This was partially attributed to these individuals engaging in higher levels of physical activity and perceiving an improved sense of social support and reduced relational strain, Oh noted.
Generally, optimism/pessimism isn't solely about believing one won't get sick or will be more susceptible compared to others, but rather about acknowledging reality while maintaining the belief that things will ultimately improve.
This constructive mindset enables effective problem-solving and coping.
“Our study indicated that optimists performed better even when faced with new challenges,” the researchers concluded.
