The Benefits of Gratitude

In a fast-paced life, it is easy to overlook what we are grateful for during our day-to-day life. Recent research shows that practicing gratitude has several benefits to our mental and physical health. But what is gratitude? Gratitude allows us to take a moment and appreciate the things, people, or events that bring us joy.  Anything that makes our heart feel warm and brings joy and positive feelings. Gratitude helps us slow down and appreciate what we do have in our life and bring consciousness and nurture it.  

According to Nicole McDermott (2023), there are five mental health benefits to gratitude. The first is that gratitude helps us elevate our mindset. Which means that gratitude can help us shift our minds from negative or overthinking into positive thoughts. The second mental health benefit of gratitude is that it helps us connect to others, which decreases loneliness and results in positive interactions and connections. Gratitude can help us focus on the positive aspects of our loved ones and feel closer to them. It can inspire us to feel compassion and kindness towards others. The third benefit is that gratitude can help us move towards our goals. By practicing gratitude, it can motivate us to make positive changes, like exercising and healthy eating. According to McDermott (2023), gratitude helps us align our goals. For example, exercising can lead to healthy eating. Additionally, gratitude can help reduce stress by giving us peace and reminders that we have the choice and freedom to react in difficult situations. Lastly, gratitude helps us regulate our emotions. By focusing on the positive aspects in our lives, we can bring peace into negative feelings and help us let go of our focus on what we cannot control. 

How can we express gratitude?  

Keeping a gratitude journal and writing down what we are grateful for is a good way to incorporate gratitude. Also, appreciating the moment and slowing down to be present is a good way to feel feelings of gratitude. Lastly, doing kind things to others can help you feel grateful and share feelings of joy with others. 

Gratitude can be different for everyone, it is a matter of exploring what brings you joy and taking the time to appreciate it.  

If you would like to know how to incorporate gratitude into your everyday life or you are struggling to feel joy in your life, feel free to contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. on 708-633-8000. We are located at: 6819-167 th St. in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477. 

Mariana Rodriguez Graduate Intern, 2025. 

Reference: 

McDermott N., (2023, November 10). The mental health benefits of gratitude. Forbes Magazine. https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/mental-health-benefits-of-gratitude/