The day typically starts at 8:00 a.m. The health psychologist has an appointment in 2 hours with a newly diagnosed cancer patient. The cancer patient is a young women who is having a difficult time accepting her illness. She has an extremely negative attitude and feels as though there is no hope for a future. The health psychologist needs to help adjust the cancer patient's attitude so she has a more positive outlook on her future. Statistics show that a better attitude can produce a faster rate of recovery as well as better problem-solving and coping strategies. The cancer patient needs to recognize that she is ill, but still be alive enough in her mind to fight the cancer. Trial factors, and psychological factors.

Psychological Inhibition : This is the process when a person conceals personal problems and negative emotions. Dispositional Optimism: This refers to an overall optimistic state in which one generally expects the future to be good. Health psychologists believe this is linked to a quicker recovery from illness. Explanatory Style: This refers to the tendency to explain events in certain ways. One who explains him/herself in a positive style generally exhibits better health habits. Alternative Medicine : When traditional medicine cannot cure an illness, alternative medicine can be used.