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The Science of Affirmations in Mental Health: How Words Can Change Your Mindset

Updated: Mar 21

Lightbox with colorful text "MAKE THIS DAY GREAT!" on a table, blurred background. Bright and motivational atmosphere.
Start each day with positive affirmations to rewire your brain and improve your mindset. PHOTO: Alexas Fotos

Mental health has become a priority for individuals, organizations and communities alike. With the rise in awareness about mental wellness, more people are turning to mindfulness practices, therapy and self-help techniques to manage stress, anxiety and depression. Among these practices, affirmations have gained significant attention for their potential to improve mental health. But do affirmations actually work, and if so, how?

Let’s dive into the science behind affirmations and their impact on mental health.

Tiles spell "YOU GOT THIS" on a pink background, conveying encouragement and positivity.
Studies show that affirmations activate the brain’s reward centers, reducing stress and boosting motivation. PHOTO: Airam Daito-on

What Are Affirmations?


Affirmations are positive, present-tense statements that encourage individuals to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with healthier, more constructive beliefs. For example, saying “I am strong and capable” or “I am worthy of love and success” might seem simple, but when practiced consistently, affirmations are believed to influence both emotional and psychological well-being.


The Science Behind Affirmations

Affirmations work through a process known as cognitive restructuring, which is central to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). According to research, repeating positive statements can rewire neural pathways in the brain, making it easier to foster a positive mindset over time. In essence, when we repeat affirmations, we are consciously shifting our focus away from negativity and reframing our thought patterns.

A study published in Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience showed that repeating positive affirmations activates the reward centers of the brain, particularly areas associated with motivation and positive emotional responses. These findings support the idea that affirmations not only help us combat negative thinking but also create a physiological response that can elevate our mood and boost motivation.


Notebook with positive affirmations written in orange on a page, lying on a cream knitted blanket, conveying a hopeful mood.
For affirmations to have a lasting impact, they need to be repeated daily. PHOTO: Tara Winstead

Why Affirmations Matter for Mental Health

The effects of affirmations on mental health are multi-dimensional. Here are a few reasons why affirmations can be powerful:

  1. Reducing Stress: Research from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) showed that positive affirmations can reduce the brain’s response to stress by activating areas linked to self-control and resilience. This means that, with practice, affirmations could help reduce the intensity of stressors in daily life.

  2. Boosting Self-Esteem: Affirmations help individuals reinforce their value and self-worth. A study from the Journal of Social and Clinical Psychology found that when people engaged in self-affirmation exercises, they experienced less defensiveness and greater self-compassion, leading to improved self-esteem and emotional well-being.

  3. Managing Anxiety and Depression: Positive affirmations, when used as part of a broader mental health strategy, can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. In particular, affirmations related to self-worth and personal strengths can help individuals feel more empowered in the face of negative emotions.

  4. Promoting Goal Achievement: Research indicates that affirmations can improve goal achievement by boosting self-efficacy, or the belief in one’s ability to succeed. The use of affirmations encourages individuals to set clear, attainable goals, fostering a sense of accomplishment and motivation.


Gift bag with pink tissue, a card reading "Strong. Brave. Beautiful." with floral designs, and a pink ribbon on a peach background.
Incorporate affirmations into your daily routine, like listening to affirmation music or placing cards around your home, to transform your mindset. PHOTO: RDNE Stock Project

How to Use Affirmations Effectively

While affirmations may sound simple, their effectiveness relies on consistency, authenticity, and emotional connection. Here are a few tips on how to incorporate affirmations into your mental health routine:

  • Make Them Personal: Affirmations should be specific to your needs and goals. Instead of using generic phrases like “I am successful,” try something like “I am capable of achieving my goals and overcoming obstacles.”

  • Repeat Regularly: For affirmations to have a lasting impact, they need to be repeated daily. Aim to integrate them into your morning routine or whenever you feel negativity creeping in.

  • Believe in What You Say: Affirmations are most powerful when you truly believe in them. If you struggle to believe the affirmations at first, start with statements that feel more realistic and gradually work your way toward more powerful affirmations.

  • Stick Them Around Your Home: Write your favorite affirmations on cards and place them around your home or workspace. This visual reminder allows you to see them throughout your day, helping to reinforce positive thinking without you even realizing it.

  • Combine With Music: Listening to affirmations through guided videos on platforms like YouTube can also have a significant impact. Start your day by playing a morning affirmation playlist. This can help you focus your mind, increase your motivation, and set a positive tone for the day ahead.

  • Combine With Other Practices: Affirmations work best when combined with other wellness practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, or therapy. This holistic approach can help strengthen the positive effects of affirmations on mental health.


Transform Your Mindset Today


Words have the power to change your life—starting with your mindset. By adopting the scientifically proven practice of affirmations, you can take control of your mental well-being and cultivate a resilient, positive outlook. At La Playa Media and Marketing, we’re passionate about empowering you to embrace practices that promote mental health and happiness.

Ready to start your transformation? Begin by incorporating positive affirmations into your daily routine and watch how it enhances your overall mental wellness. For more tips on building a strong, positive mindset, reach out to us today. We're here to support you every step of the way.


What positive affirmation will you start using today to shift your mindset and improve your mental health? Drop your favorite affirmation in the comments and share with our community. We’d love to hear from you!



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