The Gunners have made their worst start under manager Arsene Wenger, with results such as a recent defeat by Blackburn Rovers - where they conceded two own goals - and an 8-2 drubbing by Manchester United at Old Trafford.
But the Dutchman is hoping that they can use the victory in the League Cup as a stepping stone as they look to turnaround what has been an awful start by their standards - starting with the game against Bolton at the weekend.
Van Persie told reporters: "It is important that we stay positive - that can be hard because everyone is frustrated and we realise that this is our worst start in the league for a while, but we have to stay together, be strong and make sure not to hide or become introverted.
"Games like Saturday's [Blackburn] happen, but we must not go into our shell.
"We should be proud of who we are and aware that we are only five games in with so much still to play for."
Wenger is trying to cut out collapses in defence after throwing away a 2-1 lead in the second-half at Ewood Park.
And Van Persie isn't looking for anyone to blame for their poor showing in the first few games of the season.
He added: "The facts are we went in front twice [against Blackburn] and didn't defend well enough thereafter.
"It is strange because in earlier games, Udinese being a classic example, we had managed to do it - fighting for a good result and keeping it. Now we have to show people we can do it week in, week out.
"Yes, we were a bit unlucky at Ewood Park, but I am someone who believes you bring luck to yourselves - and scoring two own goals is not down to bad luck.
"We don't blame individuals, but we have to look a bit more closely at things."
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