Happy People Live Longer: Subjective Well-Being Contributes to Health and Longevity

Date Published: 
March 2011
Researcher(s): 
Diener E and Chan MY
Abstract: 

In this study, researchers review seven types of evidence that shows high subjective well-being (SWB)—including life satisfaction, absence of negative emotions, optimism, and positive emotions—cause better health and longevity. Examples of each type of evidence are described, and issues such as causality, effect size, methodological rigor, whether too much happiness can be detrimental to health, and whether there is a threshold effect for SWB are discussed.

Health Assets: 
Absence of Negative Emotions, Life Satisfaction, Optimism, Positive Emotions, Subjective Well-being
Health Conditions: 
Longevity
Positive Health Type: 
Subjective