Do people who have a very optomistic outlook on life and who smile often get sick less or get well faster?

Great question!: I can't prove it scientifically but in 42 years as a physician, I have been struck by the relationship between attitude & outcome. I am convinced that optimism can positively influence recovery from illness. There are many examples of desperately ill patients who "willed" themselves to rally for a specific important, usually family, event. Conversely, patients who "give up" die quickly.

Yes: Yes, i. Believe this to be true.