The Role of Gratitude in Mental Health

Freddy Murphy

Beyond The Blues

Amidst the turbulence of everyday life, the little things that matter or bring happiness are easy to lose sight of. But research and daily life demonstrate the value of gratitude—a gentle and observant appreciation for the simple things in life—in radically improving mental well-being. Gratitude is more than a fleeting feel-good buzz; it can shift our focus, rooting us firmly in the present and away from what is lacking. Amidst stress or despair, taking a moment to focus on the things we are thankful for opens the space for repair and restoration.

Gratitude has been associated with a series of mental health strengths, ranging from low anxiety symptoms and low depressive symptoms to elevated self-esteem. Gratitude becomes second nature with practice, allowing the focus to shift more toward positive experiences. Minor actions, such as jotting down three things you are grateful for, sending gratitude letters, or taking mental note of the small pleasures during the day, help condition the mind for default mode appreciation rather than grievance. Over time, this fosters the development of emotional resilience, promotes good sleep, and cultivates more resilient relationships between individuals.

Furthermore, gratitude develops social connection, a cornerstone for good mental health. Gratitude fosters greater empathy and trust within family and peer relationships, as well as in brief interactions with strangers. This two-way system of receiving and expressing gratitude fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens support networks. 

Finally, though gratitude is no magic bullet, it is a great, universal resource that we ultimately find within our nature. By incorporating an expression of appreciation into our own day-to-day life, we enrich our own lives not only for our own sake but also make the world we inhabit a more balanced and compassionate place. In the direction of mental well-being, gratitude is more than a momentary flash — it’s an orientation for which we do well to develop.

Works Cited:

Salamon, Maureen. “Gratitude Enhances Health, Brings Happiness — and May Even Lengthen Lives - Harvard Health.” Harvard Health, Harvard Health, 11 Sept. 2024, www.health.harvard.edu/blog/gratitude-enhances-health-brings-happiness-and-may-even-lengthen-lives-202409113071.

Smith, Ashley. “Gratitude - a Mental Health Game Changer.” Adaa.org, 22 Nov. 2023, adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/blog-posts/consumer/gratitude-mental-health-game-changer.

“The Impact of Gratitude on Mental Health.” NAMI California, namica.org/blog/the-impact-of-gratitude-on-mental-health/.