Negative thoughts lead to negative emotions and actions. If you are feeling down, all you want to do is stay under the covers and not deal with anyone. Telling yourself negative thoughts can lead to you, and others believing those thoughts. If you constantly tell people you aren't smart enough for that promotion, in time you and your co-workers will believe that to be the truth. However, if you tell yourself you are just as qualified as everyone else for that promotion, you and your co-workers will believe that to be the truth. A negative thought process and negative attitude will not give you the courage and strength to even try for the promotion. A positive attitude will give you the confidence to go for it, even if you don't get it and least you tried.

The road to recovery is more than just medication and doctor's visits. It is about convincing yourself that you are going to be alright. It is saying everyday that this illness or disease is not going to bring you down or stop you from reaching for the stars. You may have a disease, but it is not all you are.

Positive affirmations are a way to force a decision and commit to gaining control of your life back. Close your eyes and say "I will overcome this". Bring up pictures in your mind of you free of your illness. Picture yourself living a healthy life and immersing yourself in healthy things. Remember that picture for when times get tough and things get hard.

You don't have to spend tons of money on self-help tapes. It is easy and free to make your own daily affirmations. The trick is to make yourself recite these affirmations daily, even when you are in the foulest of moods. Write out things such as "I am getting stronger and healthier" "I feel better and more positive with each passing day". Put these sayings in your purse or wallet or hang them in the mirror where you get ready each day.