The benefits of positivity on mental and cardiovascular health
Damien Gruson, Chiara Peranio, and Christos Mansinakis
Citation: Gruson, D., Peranio, C., & Mansinakis, C. (2026). The benefits of positivity on mental and cardiovascular health. European Journal of Applied Positive Psychology, 10, 1, 1-4.
https://www.nationalwellbeingservice.org/volumes/volume-10-2026/volume-10-article-1/
Processing dates: Submitted: 20th December 2024; Resubmitted: 28th October 2025; Accepted: 19th December 2025; Published: 5th February 2026
Abstract
Positivity, encompassing optimism, resilience, and hope, has emerged as a crucial determinant of both mental and cardiovascular health. In recent years, increasing evidence has shown that the way individuals think and feel profoundly shapes their physiological responses and long-term health outcomes. Rather than being an abstract concept, positivity has measurable biological and psychological effects that translate into tangible differences in well-being.
In this brief report, we explore the scientific and clinical relevance of positivity as a modifiable factor that promotes resilience and longevity. Drawing inspiration from current literature and real-world observations, we highlight how positive emotions can influence lipid metabolism, inflammation, and stress regulation. Optimistic individuals typically display lower concentrations of stress hormones such as cortisol, better vascular reactivity, and enhanced recovery after stressful events. These biological effects are paralleled by psychological benefits, including stronger coping skills, reduced anxiety and depression, and improved social connectedness.
We also emphasize the neurobiological pathways linking optimism to cardiovascular health, particularly the involvement of brain regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex and inferior frontal
gyrus in reward processing and emotional control. Ultimately, nurturing hope and positivity can be viewed as a cost-effective, evidence-based approach to improving population health.
Keywords: Optimism, Cardiovascular Health, Mental Resilience, Inflammation, Stress Regulation, Longevity
Generative AI statement: The author(s) confirm that no Generative AI was used in the creation and development of this manuscript. All citations and references have been thoroughly checked by the authors.
Biographies
Damien Gruson is with the Department of Laboratory Medicine, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc et Université Catholique de Louvain, 10 Avenue Hippocrate, Brussels, B-1200, Belgium.
Email: damien.gruson@uclouvain.be
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5987-4376
Chiara Peranio is with Communication and Digital Marketing, University Mercatorum, Roma, Italy
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-0982-0353
Christos Mansinakis is with Ormi, Brussels Belgium
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-8799-4199