Finding Strength in Practicing Gratitude for Mental Health

Aug 9, 2024

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Sunrise over Mount Fuji, symbolizing new beginnings and the uplifting power of gratitude. — Embrace each new day with gratitude, just as the sun rises over Mount Fuji, bringing light and hope.

Ever feel like the world is crumbling? Feeling down in the dumps? We here at Little Clouds are here to raise your spirits! We believe in the power of positive reinforcement. But what is gratitude, and how is it relevant to your life’s situation?

What is Gratitude?

Gratitude means being thankful and sharing kindness with others. One way to think about gratitude is to think or write down five things you are grateful for. And this can be done at any time of day! Some examples could be a family member you're close to, a job you enjoy, good weather, an activity you like, or perhaps where you live!

My Personal Experience

For myself, I am grateful for having a therapist that will help me get my life back on track. We do this through discussions of how to deal with my depression, through diagrams and scales of how depressed I feel at any given moment. She suggested to me to do an activity I liked for 15 minutes one day a week!

The word 'Gratitude' in elegant font with a soft, calming color gradient in the background, evoking a sense of peace and positivity. — Gratitude: A gentle reminder to find beauty and positivity in every moment.

Ways to Practice Gratitude

Speaking of activities, gratitude isn’t just limited to thinking about things you are grateful for. It is about returning kindness to others. Have you ever helped out a neighbor with heavy groceries? How did it feel when they thanked you for your help? Pretty good, right?

I know I feel pretty good when I help someone at work. I have been working on the water slide at a local pool, and nothing satisfies me more than when people with disabilities of all kinds tell me thank you for what I did personally. I have autistic disorder, and I want to help all kinds of people with disabilities. And when that happens, it is when I feel most grateful!

Final Thoughts

What if you can’t think of anything that makes you grateful? That’s okay! Take a few deep breaths and read on. Maybe find a hobby that you’re passionate about, or perhaps a friend or family member can remind you of all the positive things you can be grateful for.

Don’t give up because you’re more than enough and deserve happiness in your life! I believe in you, and if you practice gratitude enough, you too can turn your life around! So, what are you grateful for today?