new study has found that optimistic men are less likely to die from
cardiovascular disease than men who are less hopeful. The findings
were reported in The Archives of Internal Medicine based
on a study of 545 Dutch men, ages 64 to 84, over a 15-year period.
Researchers kept track of the men’s health and questioned
them every five years on their outlook on life. The men were asked
whether they agreed with statements such as “I still expect
 much
from life” or “I am still full of plans.”
The most optimistic men in the study had a 50% lower risk of death
from cardiovascular disease over the 15 years than the least optimistic
men.
How can this be? The researchers offered this explanation: people
who are optimistic are also better able to cope with problems, to
reach out for help from others when they need it and to follow their
medical treatments.
Another possible explanation is that the optimistic men may be prone
to nostalgia. Apparently, thinking of good memories for just 20
minutes a day can make people more cheerful than they were the week
before, according to Loyola University psychologist Fred Bryant.
“Reminiscence can motivate you,” says Dr. Bryant. It
can give you “a sense of being rooted, a sense of meaning
and purpose—instead of being blown around by the whims of
everyday life.”
Similar studies have shown an association between a good frame of
mind and good health, though the link does not appear to be as strong
for women as it is for men. 
—Adapted from Psychology Today and The New York Times
Seems upbeat
men have reason to be (click)
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whistles’ ineffective (click)
New survey suggests mounting pressure
to be ‘supergirls' (click)
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