How Is Having a Positive Attitude Healthy for You?

Although a positive attitude is often difficult to maintain in times of economic uncertainty and in the face of personal problems and national and international disasters, it can literally be a lifesaver. Fortunately, negative attitudes are amendable over time and can lead to improvement in the quality of life.

Types

• Positive attitudes can improve a person's physical and emotional health, and can even lead to improved financial and spiritual health, says Medline Plus.

Features

• People with a positive attitude often feel less emotional stress and experience fewer aches and pains. According to the Cleveland Clinic, they might miss less work and project a stronger self image, which can lead to new opportunities in their personal and professional lives.

Effects

• Medline Plus says that people with a positive attitude often have a positive influence on those around them and are easier to deal with, which can make for a more smoothly run household, social network and workplace.

Considerations

• Having a social support system in place can help people maintain a positive attitude, even when disruptive life events take place.

Misconceptions

• Developing a positive attitude begins during childhood, but according to the Cleveland Clinic, this is not fixed and can develop later in life for people whose childhood was difficult.

Benefits

• According to Medline Plus, a person with a positive attitude more likely to eats right, exercises and has a strong immune system, which can lead to a long and healthy life. People with a positive attitude have fewer incidences of heart disease, including life threatening emergencies such as a heart attack, says Medline Plus.