3 minute read
SC
School Counseling
Why is gratitude important for mental health?
Showing appreciation, thankfulness, and gratitude not only makes "others" feel good about themselves but also makes "us" feel good about ourselves, in return. The research is clear that showing gratitude is associated with greater happiness and positive emotions. Gratitude can also lead to improved health benefits, the ability to form strong interpersonal relationships, and increased coping mechanisms to deal with adversities in life. Those are all strong contributors to mental health!
I try to verbally and personally thank everyday people I encounter whenever I can (waiters, baristas, cashiers, airline pilots, and service professionals, in general). They do so much to enhance our quality of life on an everyday basis and they deserve to hear our praises and appreciation as often as possible. I also like to show my appreciation for others through small gestures such as hand-written thank you notes, small token gifts of flowers, food, or chocolates. I love to shop so I am always on the lookout for special little items that I can pick up for people and offer as random acts of kindness and gratitude. The best part is when you can surprise someone with something to honor how much you appreciate having them in your life!
Dr. Cerrito, Program Director
Why is gratitude important for mental health?
Gratitude is important for mental health because it can shape the way we see the world. Even on my busiest days, if I can take a moment to name a few things to be grateful for, I feel less overwhelmed and more in the "here-and-now". It puts me into a better mindset immediately!
I practice gratitude through prayer by meditating on the things I am grateful for at the end of each day. I also try to take some time during quiet moments throughout the day to name a few things I am thankful for. This focuses me and helps me live by my values in a more authentic and intentional way.
Sarah Frederick, School Counseling Student How is gratitude important for mental health?
Gratitude is important for mental health because with gratitude people can foster empathy and resilience, experience happiness, build relationships, receive opportunities for growth and improve their overall health. With gratitude, we appreciate what is given to us. When gratitude is expressed, we become aware that every moment should be cherished. Especially because there is no certainty that another moment will arise. With moments that occur in life, we are given opportunity. Some of the moments received are either positive or negative. Regardless of the circumstances, we can still learn. Through this process of gratitude, individuals can acknowledge the goodness in life and appreciate the opportunity that arises.
How do you incorporate thankfulness and gratitude into your everyday life?
I incorporate thankfulness and gratitude into my everyday life through my personal and professional identity. As a future school counselor, I take all that I am fortunate enough to have and use it to motivate me toward my future goals. This shows in my hard work and dedication to school, how I appreciate those around me and in my future profession. I aim to show my thankfulness and gratefulness in the relationships I build with others. I am present in the moment with others and aim to care for the whole person. I strongly believe that if you put good into the universe, it will one day benefit Bianca Gentile, School you and those around you in Counseling Intern
