New Zealanders are feeling optimistic for 2010 and beyond, according to the results of a recent online poll by the Mental Health Foundation.

In total 34.6 percent of voters said they felt very optimistic about their future and 11.5 percent said they felt somewhat optimistic. For some, 2009 had been difficult, 30.8 percent said they felt 2010 had to be better than the preceding year.

Only 11.5 percent said they didn't feel at all optimistic for 2010 and beyond. The same percent said they were uncertain.

The Foundation is encouraged by the results of its poll and says that optimism is an important trait to nurture.

"Optimism is not about ignoring life's difficulties," Judi Clements, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation says. "It's about developing resilience to address and overcome obstacles, and having the hope to anticipate happiness in one's life."

Optimism is vital both in maintaining wellbeing and can help with recovery when experiencing a mental health problem. With one in five New Zealanders experiencing a mental health issue within the past year it is important to remember that the vast majority of people do recover and to stay optimistic.

Tips on nurturing optimism

v Try to see the bigger picture - ask yourself if something is really that important in the long term

v Practice gratitude - try writing something down every night for which you feel grateful

v Celebrate your achievements and successes

v When faced with a tough situation remember that you have overcome obstacles before

v Focus on solutions, not the problem itself