Many studies have been done to research
effects of motivation and mental health. As implications of helping those with negative self-esteem, depression and anxiety are immense this is certainly an area of research that deserves a great deal of attention. Psychology Online reports on a study investigating differences between INTERNAL and EXTERNAL MOTIVATION. The report states that "Although our society is largely extrinsically-motivated by external rewards such as money, fame and power, research has indicated those who are intrinsically-motivated by inner desires for creativity, fulfillment and inner satisfaction are psychologically healthier and happier."
How can this help you?
The study of health psychology seeks to understand how our ability to cope with stress can help us to prevent illness and promote health. Some of these coping mechanisms are naturally inborn but may be taught to those who lack them. Motivation is one of tools that researchers are trying to use as a combatant of negative stress reactions.
Motivation is something that we use every day. It's what enables us to survive - to get food because we're hungry, to go to work to pay bills or to educate ourselves in order to pursue a higher goal in life.
How we respond to life's demands can affect our overall health. How are you classified?
The same report on Psychology Online identified those who respond to life with negativity or anxiety as most likely to deal with physical affects of anger, guilt, nervousness, frustration and fear. These emotions can cause hypertension and high blood pressure which can lead to heart attack or stroke. Other complications include ulcers, arthritis, asthma and kidney disease.
