The findings revealed that greater optimism plays a crucial role in building resilience when facing stressors like the pandemic
A recent study has highlighted the role of optimism and flexible coping in improving mental health, especially during challenging times. With growing social isolation, health concerns, and economic uncertainties, many people are grappling with anxiety and fear daily. The study, published in the Journal of Research in Personality, suggests that developing an optimistic mindset and learning to cope flexibly can significantly help individuals manage prolonged stress, like that experienced during the pandemic.
Led by Jeewon Oh, an assistant professor of psychology at Syracuse University, the research focused on how personality traits, particularly optimism and pessimism, influence well-being during stressful situations. The team analyzed data from the Health and Retirement Study, which includes a nationally representative sample of Americans aged 50 and older, to explore how people’s attitudes affected their physical and psychological health during difficult times.
The findings revealed that greater optimism plays a crucial role in building resilience when facing stressors like the pandemic. Optimists, who tend to view stressful situations positively, are more likely to take action and adapt to circumstances they cannot control. In contrast, people with lower levels of pessimism were found to engage in safer health behaviors. Dr. Oh explained, “Optimism motivates action, and we wanted to understand how it can help people cope with enduring stressors like the pandemic.”
The study also showed that individuals with more optimistic attitudes and less pessimism experienced less stress, worry, and loneliness, while also being more resilient. They engaged in more physical activity and reported stronger social support. Optimism, however, is not about unrealistic expectations but maintaining a positive outlook while recognizing challenges and believing that things will eventually improve.
Overall, the research concluded that fostering optimism can help people navigate stressful situations more effectively, contributing to better mental health even in the face of ongoing difficulties.
