Benue State University, Makurdi

POSITIVE THINKING AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AMONG THE ELDERLY IN BENUE STATE

Moses Denen Chiahemba, Joyce Mchivir Terwase, Elvis Oblu Ihaji, Pauline Atsehe, Aondongu Iulun, Vernen Joshua Tseva and Peter Agene

Abstract

The adverse effect of psychological distress on the elderly cannot be overemphasized as it poses a global public health challengeand those who lack the ability to think positively are highly probable to negative attitudes, suicidal ideation, increased symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and investigated positive thinking and psychological distress among the elderly in Benue State. The simple random sampling technique was used to sample six (6) Local Government Areas of the State while purposive sampling was used to sample three hundred and six (306) elderly people who participated in the study; 225 (73.5%) males and 81 (26.5%) females. The Positivity Scale and Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) were used for data collection. The hypothesis was formulated and tested using Regression Analysis. On the whole, positive thinking plays a significant role on psychological distress among the elderly. On the dimensions, having confidence in the future was not statisticallysignificant to psychological distress while self-confidence and satisfaction were statistically significant to psychological distress. It was concluded that positive thinking determines psychological distress among the elderly. It was recommended thathence positive thinking can be learned according to learning theory, constant and conscious practice will lead to positive feelings, then to good health, happiness, physical and psychological health. This can be done through the use of seminars/workshops for government workers who are about to retireby clinical psychologists and other mental health professionals to help the elderly practice positive thinking consciously.

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