Summary

The article discusses the importance of positive thinking in mental health, emphasizing that while it may not be a cure-all, it can significantly improve one's outlook and resilience in the face of adversity.

Abstract

The article "Look On The Bright Side To Banish The Blues" addresses the prevalent mental health challenges exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, advocating for the practice of positive thinking as a tool to combat feelings of loneliness, isolation, and despair. It acknowledges that while positive thinking might not be effective for everyone, especially those with clinical conditions like depression or PTSD, it can be a beneficial strategy for many. The author shares personal experiences of overcoming mental health issues by finding perspective and gratitude, even in difficult circumstances. The article suggests that focusing on what one has, rather than what one lacks, can greatly enhance mental well-being. It also provides practical tips for maintaining a positive outlook, such as not sweating the small stuff, giving people the benefit of the doubt, and finding the good in challenging situations. The author concludes by citing research from Harvard Medical School that suggests optimism could lead to a longer life.

Opinions

The author believes that anyone can improve their mental health by choosing to see the positive side of situations.
Positive thinking is presented as a helpful tool, but the author recognizes that it is not a substitute for professional help in cases of severe mental health conditions.
The author shares their personal journey of using perspective to overcome depression, an eating disorder, Complex PTSD, and chronic low self-esteem.
A friend's positive response to blindness is cited as an example of how gratitude can transform one's outlook on life.
The article advises against fixating on minor negative events, such as a family member leaving a four-star review instead of five stars.
The author encourages readers to practice positivity by not jumping to negative conclusions, not holding grudges, and focusing on good qualities in others.
It is suggested that changes like job loss or the end of a relationship can lead to new, better opportunities.
The article concludes with the opinion that optimism might not only improve mental health but also extend one's lifespan.

Mental Health, Positivity, Happiness

Look On The Bright Side To Banish The Blues

With practice, it’s easier than you think!

Mental health is a huge issue at the moment. The Covid-19 pandemic made us all feel the mental health crisis more acutely, as many people struggle with issues around loneliness, isolation, money problems, and lack of purpose.

Fortunately, anyone can feel a bit better by choosing to look on the bright side of a situation. Regardless of your experiences, problems or circumstances, looking for positives in difficult situations can help you feel brighter, more empowered, and able to continue with the journey that is life, despite its numerous, inevitable setbacks.

Positive thinking doesn’t work for everyone. But it’s worth a try! In cases of clinical depression, social anxiety, PTSD, etc, medication and/or therapy may also be required.

Trying to find a bright side

There’s usually a bright side. Sometimes, it’s just hard to see it. I used to struggle with depression. I had an eating disorder, Complex PTSD and chronic low self-esteem, which stemmed from bullying and an abusive home life.

I was trapped at home with my tormentor and couldn’t see a way out. But the thing that helped me overcome my mental health problems and pick myself up again was the simple realisation that I was better off than famine victims in Africa.

I’m not suggesting that other people make that comparison. Everyone needs to search for their own positives; preferably closer to home! But for me, the new sense of perspective helped. That was the bright side.

Just for the record, my life got better. Hang in there; it usually does!

A friend who’s recently gone blind is very upbeat about his situation. He’s grateful that he has otherwise good health and a lot of support. I’d quite understand if he was in the depths of despair, but no, he’s being very positive and pragmatic about it.

Trying to be thankful for what you do have can really help your mental health.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

Get a sense of proportion about what matters and what doesn’t. When a fellow writer told me they felt disappointed that their family had left a four star review of their book, I said, “I’d be grateful if they read it and reviewed my work at all!”

Indeed, I am. My sister read my novel and left a four star review, for which I am truly grateful.

This author felt that her family should not leave anything less than five stars. But honestly, this is small fry and it’s a good review. Don’t spend time worrying about small things that don’t matter.

The bright side is that her family is interested in her work and one of them gave the book a positive review!

Tips for a positive outlook

It takes practice to overcome downbeat and depressive thinking. Try not to jump to negative conclusions too readily. Give people the benefit of the doubt.

Don’t think people have ulterior motives or are being unkind if they say something insensitive. They might just be being unthoughtful or a bit dim!
Move on and be the bigger person. Don’t hold grudges. Judge people on their good qualities and don’t dwell on the bad.
If possible, keep a distance from critical individuals if they repeatedly hurt your feelings. You don’t need negative influences in your life.
Focus on the positives. Try to stay positive by looking for the best in all situations.
Hate Covid restrictions? Most people do, but we’ve enjoyed more time in the countryside and discovered new places. That’s the good outcome that we can repeat in the future.
Try to take away the positives from a difficult experience. Was a relationship that’s just ended becoming tiresome anyway? The future often has something better in store.
Are you struggling with change? Sometimes a new challenge can make you a better person in the long run.
If you lose your job, perhaps there’s something you’ll enjoy more, just around the corner. Redundancy changed my life for the better!
According to Harvard Medical School, looking on the bright side might help you live longer too!

What are your best tips for looking on the bright side?