As we continue through September and our recognition of Suicide Awareness Month, I want to share what is no doubt our best internal defense against anxiety, depression, hopelessness and helplessness: optimism.

I know I have shared this on numerous occasions over the years, but it cannot be shared enough. Although the topic and efforts of suicide awareness are vital to reducing stigma and opening up the conversation surrounding how we respond to and support those in their moments of crisis, we also have to recognize that a strong offense is our best defense. In this case, taking the offensive means being proactive about our mental health. We do this by developing the skills of resiliency, and the simplest yet most effective skill of resiliency is gratitude, which naturally creates a mental disposition of optimism.

The word “optimism” comes from the Latin word “optimus,” which means “best.” Optimism is defined as “the mental attitude of hoping for the best and expecting positive outcomes in the future.”

For some cynics, this may be seen as a “rose-colored glasses” approach to the struggles we face, but this is not the case if applied properly. A few years ago, I was asked to provide my how and why as they pertained to optimism, and here was my best attempt at it:

Optimism is the engine that powers resiliency. While there are many character strengths that we all possess, they are all deficient unless supported by and deeply rooted in optimism. We are impacted in everything from personal relationships to physical health by the existence or absence of optimism. This powerful trait is not one founded in denial of reality or refusal of circumstances, but rather the unyielding belief that even our darkest hours bring with them hope and empowerment.

For those who know me, this is my superpower. Some have accused me of being optimistic to a fault. I plead guilty, but I would have it no other way. If we are to recognize our responses and attitudes related to mental health crisis response, we should apply that same effort and recognition to the skills that provide the strongest deterrent to those crises.

Rather than succumb to the many worries that are presented each day, consider your optimistic response and create your very own optimism superpower! There is a wide variety to choose from, including the following:

Natural optimism, resilient optimism, purposeful optimism, realistic optimism, cautious optimism, relentless optimism, infectious optimism, professional optimism, sunny optimism, abundant optimism, worried optimism, sparkling optimism, serene optimism, bold optimism, stubborn optimism, radical optimism, magnetic optimism, audacious optimism or climate optimism.

Find your very own optimism superpower, and work to cultivate it, sustain it and, most importantly, share it!