Mental health software company Optimism Apps has announced Optimism 3.6 (http://www.findingoptimism.com/), an update of its mood chart and health planning application for Mac OS X 10.6.6. It’s now available in the Mac App Store for US$24.99 in the Health & Fitness category.

Optimism helps a person to monitor the triggers and warning signs of a decline in their mental health, and develop strategies that help them to remain well, says developer James Bishop. It gives individuals a framework for self-help, in managing depression, bipolar disorder, or other physical and mental health conditions, he adds.

Optimism gets people started in being proactive about their health, learning the choices they can make everyday to assist in their wellbeing. As the software can be completely customized to suit an individual’s specific circumstances, it is relevant to any health condition that affects, or is affected, by mood, says Bishop.