Gratitude & Your Mental Health: The Season of Thankfulness

This is the time of year when many of us think about gratitude. Robert Emmons, PH.D. who is widely regarded to be an expert on the subject, defines gratitude as "a sense of wonder, thankfulness, and appreciation for life." He then goes on to explain that gratitude has two key components. The first issue is acknowledging the good things that occur in our lives. The second is that recognizing that these blessings come from outside of ourselves - through the kindness of others, circumstances or forces beyond our control.

I did a quick search about the benefits of thankfulness on the internet and without delving deeply into the subject, I discovered at least fourteen benefits to having an attitude of thankfulness. I won't go into detail about all the benefits that are listed, however, I thought it worthwhile to discuss a few of them.

Psychological Benefits

Psychological benefits include that people perform better in the areas of mental and emotional health. There is less depression among people who are thankful for things that occur or have in their lives as well as helping to prevent or at least lessen depressive episodes in a person's life. Gratitude decreases stress and boosts the positive mental states such as joy, optimism, and tranquility.

Physical Benefits

Research also indicates that people are physically healthier as well. Those who practice gratitude as part of their lives have stronger immune systems, have better overall health, and less stress-related illness. The research also shows that thankful people sleep better and exercise more often, which also leads to better health.

Relationship Benefits

Studies have shown that those who practice gratitude develop stronger interpersonal relationships, including more satisfying romantic relationships. When people are grateful, studies demonstrate that there is less resentment and find it easier to forgive one another. Another unexpected result of the studies is that those who are thankful are more likely to do volunteer work and more apt to donate to charitable organizations.

How Gratitude Affects the Brain

Research in neuroscience has shown that practicing gratitude doesn't just make us feel better, it actually changes the way our brains function. When we express or even think about gratitude, areas of the brain associated with reward, morality, and interpersonal connection become activated, particularly the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and the hypothalamus. These regions are involved in emotional regulation and decision making as well as helping us manage stress and build resilience.

Gratitude also increases the release of dopamine and serotonin, two neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being. In this way, thankfulness and gratitude act like natural antidepressants. Over time, consistent gratitude practices, like journaling or reflecting on daily blessings, can strengthen these neural pathways, making it easier to experience positive emotions and less likely to get caught in negative thought loops.

In addition, studies using brain imaging have found that gratitude can reduce activity the amygdala, the part of the brain that processes fear and anxiety. This means that people who regularly practice gratitude may feel calmer, more centered, and less reactive to life's challenges.

What God has to Say about Thankfulness

Our faith in God plays an important role in cultivating thankfulness. First Thessalonians 5:16 reminds us to "give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you." Choosing to rejoice and give thanks, as God instructs us, doesn't mean life will be perfect. However, when we practice gratitude from a place of faith, our perspective shifts. We become more content, more hopeful, and better able to see God's hand at work in our lives.

Life can often be difficult and even painful. No one is exempt all the time, in spite of what it looks like on the pages of social media. When life is hard, gratitude is not our usual reaction. But as referenced above, God tells us “In everything give thanks." Gratitude gives us a different perspective on life. I will refer to Emmons, PH.D. once again. In a recent article written by him, he mentions several examples of people, that in spite of very difficult situations, indicate that developing an attitude of thankfulness, reshaped their lives and at times even saved their lives from deep depression and sadness.

Gratitude gives us a unique perspective about our lives. As we develop the attitude of gratefulness, can assist in defining who we are as a person. We can give thanks to God, as Psalm 139:14 states, "I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are You works..." We may not always understand why things happen to us, even the negative events of our lives, but if we can cultivate the attitude of thankfulness throughout our lives and consider them as gifts from God, it gives us a very unique perspective of life.

Gratitude gives us a unique and meaningful perspective on life. As we nurture a spirit of thankfulness, it helps shape our identity and deepens our understanding of who we are. We can give thanks to God, as Psalm 139:14 reminds us: "I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works." We may not always understand why certain things happen, especially the painful or challenging moments, but when we choose to view life through the lens of gratitude, everything begins to look different. Seeing each experience as a potential gift from God allows us to find peace, strength, and hope even in difficulty. In the end, gratitude doesn't just change how we feel; it changes how we live.

Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude

Gratitude invites us to slow down, notice the good around us, and remember that even in hardship, there is grace to be found. This week, take a few moments each day to thank God for at least one thing, big or small, that brings light to your life. You may find that thankfulness doesn’t just change your day; it changes your heart.

The Glow of Gratitude

Join us for a hands-on workshop of gratitude, reflection, and creativity as we make candles and explore the light within at the Hot Spot in Durbin Pavillion. Tickets are $22. per person. This includes refreshments and all materials needed to create a special flame to brighten up your holiday season. Text or call 904-887-4673 or Purchase Tickets Here.