a complex interaction of psychological and physiological processes that determine a person’s response to life stressors and everyday problems.
1) Optimism, with its focus on positive outcomes and anticipation of success, promotes the use of effective coping strategies – problem-solving, cognitive reappraisal and the search for social support – which leads to reduced activation of the autonomic nervous system and a less active release of stress hormones (cortisol and adrenaline). This physiological regulation protects vital systems from chronic stress and reduces the risk of developing psychosomatic symptoms: cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic headaches and skin diseases. Optimism also promotes psychological flexibility, self-efficacy, and psychological resilience by enhancing a person’s ability to adapt psychologically and physically to stress.
2) Pessimism, on the contrary, is characterized by an orientation towards negativity and a sense of helplessness in the face of events, which leads to an excessive emotional and physiological reaction to stress. In this case, the nervous and endocrine systems are in a state of constant hyperactivity, which is manifested by increased secretion of stress hormones, heart palpitations, high blood pressure and weakened immunity. This constant activity leads to the accumulation of psychological and physical stress, increasing the likelihood of developing chronic psychosomatic symptoms. Moreover, pessimism reduces a person’s ability to use effective coping strategies and weakens psychological resilience and immunity, exacerbating the negative effects of stress on mental and physical health.