by Chris Bonham, intern writer

Everyone has heard the clichéd question, “Is the glass half full or half empty” at least once in their lives. Because we’ve heard it so often, we tend to brush it aside. But have you ever wondered if a person’s outlook on life really makes that much of a difference? And, if it does do anything, how much of an effect would it create?

Well, this has been a topic of scientific research for many years, and the actual truth may surprise people. CBS has reported on this idea of a person’s attitude relating to their health. They rephrased the question this way: “Does your attitude affect your health? Does a positive, happy one keep you healthier? Or a negative, unhappy, even angry, one hurt you? The answer to all these questions is yes.”

The European Journal of Cancer has released some interesting findings on this subject. In 2009, they performed a study that examined the effect certain personalities could have on a person’s health, specifically in the area of cancer and heart disease.

Their report states, “Type D [a personality which promotes negative emotions and feelings] is recognized as an important determinant for adverse health outcomes, impaired health status and health related quality of life…” Therefore, negative attitude does make a difference in how your body reacts to diseases and other related issues. But what about positive emotion? Is the converse of this evidence true?

In the same article from CBS cited in the opening paragraph, they go on to list a variety of positive feelings that are extremely beneficial. One such emotion is humor: “Humor stimulates laughter. And we know that physiological stimulation through laughter leads to a number of health benefits. It appears to reduce stress; it tends to boost immunoglobulin A (an antibody that fights upper respiratory disease); and it tends to boost killer T-cells, which are antibodies that fight infection.”

Attitude is actually a very relevant issue in the Douglas County area. For the past three years, it has been listed as having one of the top ten suicide rates in the entire nation. About 90 percent of these people suffered from severe clinical depression. Teen suicide is an especially large factor in this number, primarily because teens are often far less emotionally stable than adults.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15-24 year olds. Luckily, both adults and teens are becoming more aware of this incredible problem through events like the National Suicide Prevention Week, which is held every year from September 5-11.

Also, many organizations, such as the Second Wind Fund, are helping at-risk youth receive treatment and guidance. The message carried by these two examples is essential to changing the tide on this issue. But, even with projects like these, it is up to teens to influence their peers. This is where the true change will happen.

While suicide may be the most drastic outcome of feelings like depression, countless others may be decreasing their quality of life because of one simple choice. That choice is this: will you commit to fostering negative or positive emotions in your life? Will you decide to let your emotions control you, or will you decide to control your emotions? Is your glass half full or half empty? Fill it up.