Good Housekeeping and MSN: ‘It’s a choice’: The wellbeing tool you already have – but aren’t using
Featuring Barry K. Herman, MD, MMM, DLFAPA, Chief Medical Officer at Mentavi Health. Published in Good Housekeeping and MSN.
This article looks at optimism and health, and at how to become more optimistic. It treats optimism as a wellbeing tool most people already have, and one they can choose to use more often.
In the article, Dr. Herman shares his perspective on why optimism matters and how people can practice it.
Optimism is a way of expecting that things can work out and acting on that expectation. It is not the same as ignoring problems or pretending a hard situation is easy. Researchers continue to study how optimism relates to health. The findings show links, not proof that a positive outlook causes better health, since people who are healthier or have more support may also find it easier to feel hopeful.
Outlook is also not fixed. Many people can build more optimistic habits over time with small, steady practices, such as noticing negative self-talk, naming what went well in a day, or setting a small goal and following through. These habits take practice, and they don’t work the same way for everyone.
Nobody has to force a hopeful feeling. If low mood, worry, or a sense of hopelessness lasts or gets in the way of daily life, talking with a licensed clinician can help.
Barry K. Herman, MD, MMM, DLFAPA, is Chief Medical Officer at Mentavi Health and a double board certified psychiatrist.
About Mentavi Health: Mentavi Health is an evidence-based telehealth company specializing in mental health care. Its mission is to make evidence-based mental health care affordable and accessible.
Read the full article in Good Housekeeping: ‘It’s a choice’: The wellbeing tool you already have – but aren’t using
Read the full article in MSN: ‘It’s a choice’: The wellbeing tool you already have – but aren’t using
