Expect To Be Well

A recent study from the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests that optimism may be good for your health. The study, a review of scientific papers from 1966 – 1998, found that when patients had positive expectations about their care, they tended to have a better results.

According to a Yahoo News article on the same topic, the studies lead author stated, “There is scientific evidence that when patients have positive thoughts and expect to recover well, they usually do.”

Authors of the study suggest it is important to foster patient behaviors that “not only require positive motivation but also the knowledge and skills to pursue the desired goals.” Motivation and better education are both beneficial.

The study touched on “mind-body” connections and their role in health outcomes. For more information related to that you may want to view the Feb. 2000 Mayo Clinic study titled: “Optimists vs Pessimists: Survival Rate Among Medical Patients – Over a 30-Year Period”

Canadian Medical Association Journal: Does how you do depend on how you think you’ll do?
Yahoo News: Patient Expectations May Influence Recovery
Planet Chiropractic: Optimists vs. Pessimists: Optimists Prevail!