Having a positive outlook on life could halve your heart disease risk, according to a new study by the Harvard School of Public Health published online in Psychological Bulletin .

The review of more than 200 studies found that the most optimistic people had a 50 per cent reduction in their heart disease risk compared with those who had lower optimism scores.

“This research confirms the important role psychological wellbeing plays in heart health and overall physical health,” said Dr Robert Grenfell, Clinical Issues Director at the Heart Foundation.

“The links between mental health and heart disease are not yet fully understood, but we know that depression and social isolation are important risk factors for heart disease and that it’s vital to seek treatment early.

“Depression can be treated with medical and non-medical therapies and we encourage anyone with concerns to call their health professional as a first step,” Dr Grenfell said.

The Heart Foundation is working closely with organisations such as beyondblue and Alzheimer’s Australia to further investigate the links between mental, brain and heart health.

Heart Foundation