Optimistic Outlook Could Lower Risk Of Dying From Heart Disease, Study Finds
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Are you an optimist? You know, the kind of person who generally expects good things to happen -- or are you a gloomy Gladys who looks on the dark side of most things?
As CBS2's Dr. Max Gomez explained, new research suggests that could have a big impact on your health.
Hayami Koga said she tries to stay positive.
"I think I'm more of a glass half full person. I try to look at the bright side of life," she said.
A new study shows an optimistic outlook on life may help you live longer.
"When comparing the most optimistic to the least optimistic women, people had a reduced risk of dying from cancer, infection, stroke, heart disease, and lung disease," Dr. Eric Kim, Harvard R.H. Chan School of Public Health, explained.
Dr. Kim and researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health looked at data on 70,000 women over 8 years. The most optimistic women had a nearly 30 percent lower risk of dying.
"It seems to have the most effect on cardiovascular outcomes, and the smallest effect on cancer outcomes," Dr. Kim said.
Researchers said taking steps to boost your optimism might also lead to healthy behaviors and better coping skills.
Dr. Kim said there are some easy ways to do that.
"One is called best possible self. So you think about your different domains of life -- whether it's your personal relationship, your spouse, your career, your friendships, and in each of those domains your think about the best possible outcome," Dr. Kim said.
To increase optimism you can also write down three things you rare grateful for each night and make a list of the kind things you've done for others.
While this study only looked at women, researchers said the findings would also apply to men.
