Why is gratitude important?

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   It is November and we cannot neglect to talk about gratitude! Gratitude is a powerful and positive emotion that involves acknowledging and appreciating the good things in your life. While we are used to always saying “thank you, gratitude these words and encompasses a deep sense of recognition. The importance of gratitude extends to our mental health as well as other key areas in our lives. I often like to assign a gratitude journal to my clients in order to improve their mood and reduce levels of anxiety.

   Here are some the reasons why gratitude is important to our emotional wellbeing:

   1. Improved Mental Health:
      • Positive Emotions: Expressing gratitude has been linked to increased levels of positive emotions, including happiness and contentment. When you are able to reflect upon what has gone well in your life, you are able to slightly disconnect from what is going wrong in the present.
      • Reduced Stress: Grateful individuals tend to experience lower levels of stress and anxiety, contributing to better mental health.
   2. Strengthened Relationships:
      • Increased Connection: Learning how to be grateful fosters a sense of connection and appreciation in relationships, strengthening social bonds. It feels great when our loved ones express gratitude for simple acts of love.
      • Positive Feedback Loop: When people feel appreciated, they are more likely to reciprocate, creating a positive feedback loop in relationships. Gratitude is a beautiful act of reciprocity.
   3. Increased Resilience:
      • Coping Mechanism: Gratitude can serve as a coping mechanism during challenging times, helping individuals navigate difficulties with a more positive outlook. When depression comes, listening the things we are grateful for can help us increase hope for the future.
      • Resilience: Grateful individuals often show higher levels of resilience in the face of adversity.
   4. Personal Development:
      • Mindfulness and Presence: Practicing gratitude encourages individuals to be present and mindful, focusing on the positive aspects of their lives. Anxiety can rob us from the present and gratitude can help us ground ourselves into what matters today.
      • Shift in Perspective: It can lead to a shift in perspective, allowing individuals to see challenges as opportunities for growth. Often we focus on the negative aspects of a situation and we neglect to remember lessons learned and what we are grateful for.
   5. Altruism and Prosocial Behavior:
      • Generosity: Grateful individuals are more likely to engage in prosocial behaviors and acts of kindness towards others.
      • Altruism: The practice of gratitude is often associated with a greater sense of altruism and a willingness to contribute to the well-being of others.

   In summary, gratitude plays a crucial role in promoting overall well-being, building positive relationships, and fostering personal growth. It is a mindset and a practice that can have lasting effects on various aspects of life. Taking time to reflect on and express gratitude for the positive elements in one’s life can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying existence as well as improving our overall mental health.

   Resources:

   https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/giving-thanks-can-make-you-happier

   https://positivepsychology.com/gratitude-appreciation/

DISCLAIMER: Although I am a mental health professional, the information I provide should not be considered a substitute for a formal mental health evaluation. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, you can contact us at (407) 906-5214.

Mental health is a complex and highly individualized matter, and what works for one person may not work for another. The best course of action for anyone dealing with mental health concerns is to schedule an appointment with us for a personalized assessment, diagnosis, and treatment options. Please remember that seeking help from a licensed mental health expert is a vital step in addressing mental health challenges.

 If you or someone you know is in crisis or experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please contact emergency services or a crisis helpline immediately.