The power of positivity: What you say you’re grateful for and the benefits that come with it
07/11/24 12:00:pm
If you’re looking for an exercise that can improve mental and physical health without moving a muscle, here is your answer.
By shifting your perspective toward the positive, research shows simply acknowledging things you’re grateful for can reduce stress, increase sleep quality, and improve relationships. Many studies have found people who make a conscious effort to be thankful tend to be happier and less depressed. One large study showed gratitude predicted a significantly lower risk of major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, phobia, nicotine dependence, alcohol dependence, and drug abuse.
It can be as simple as naming three things you’re grateful for each day by writing them down or making a mental note. What you choose can range from big to small, including family, pets, and experiences.
We asked you all to share what you’re grateful for and received hundreds of responses. From helping others to opportunities to children to coffee, here are some of your answers that may spark some new ideas to add to your own gratitude list:
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have found a career in mental health that truly speaks to my passion and interests. As someone who deeply values the importance of mental health, I understand how rare it is to be able to work in this field professionally. Growing up in the South, where mental health is not always seen as a top priority, I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to develop my skills and knowledge in Wisconsin. Here, I am able to work in an environment that values mental health and provides ample opportunities for growth and advancement.” - Joshua Williams, care transition specialist, West Allis
“My teammates, My family, The autonomy to pursue my passions.” - Drew Dryssen, clinical supervisor, Silver Lake
“My supportive family who make the ‘hard’ days OK!” - Rhonda Pyle, nursing services educator
“I am grateful for my wife; she is my whole world. I am also grateful for the wonderful people I work with. I have learned so much from every one of them and continue to learn every day. Lastly, I am grateful to September Casteel, and Molly Ollmann for giving me a great opportunity to grow and learn while I was earning my degree.” - Brandon Liebergen, Supportive Living coordinator, Sheboygan
“One of the personal things that I am grateful for is being able to live life to its fullest with a smile on my face. Professionally, I am very grateful to assist in providing patients and staff with the supplies and equipment that they need and are as comfortable as possible. I’m most grateful that I had the opportunity to meet and work with so many great people while working at Rogers.” - Ashley Sewell, purchasing agent, Brown Deer
“Being able to be a part of a dream team.”- Akiyyah Jones, environmental services, Brown Deer
“I am deeply grateful for the beauty of humanity and the profound connections we share. Witnessing the impact we can have on each other’s lives fills me with gratitude daily, both within and beyond the Rogers community. I am forever thankful to work alongside such beautiful souls.” – Stephanie, behavioral health technician II, San Diego
“1. My support system 2. Cuddly pets 3. Compassionate Leaders” – Amanda Oyen, campus relations coordinator, Oconomowoc
“Limiting it to three is tricky!! I am grateful for my faith, my amazing family, and my health.” – Hannah Schroeder, psychiatrist, Oconomowoc
“Personally I am grateful for my family, friends, and my ability to travel! Professionally I am grateful for my fellow coworkers (mainly their support and their humor), the moments when patients make me laugh, and the ability to continue to grow within my profession.” – Jennifer Yukawa, inpatient psychologist, West Allis
“First and foremost, my manager Deana! She is so supportive and with all her experience a GREAT MENTOR!! Second, I am grateful for all my wonderful coworkers who are very supportive and are all GREAT Team players! Third would be consistently leaving work every day with a Thankful heart that I can help others gain/maintain healthy mental health!” – Tama’ra Rosentreter, experiential therapist II, Cedar Ridge
“1. Supportive coworkers 2. Whether it’s TikTok or Facebook reels - I’m grateful for small video snippets to laugh out loud at 3. Loving and supportive family.” – Bridget Ellingboe, DOO, Madison
“My team here at RBH - every member is supportive, encouraging, and willing to go above and beyond for one another as we continue to care for humans. My experiences, both personal and professional, that have driven me to this field and career - it is truly an honor to walk alongside humans on their paths to wellness. The humans, professional and personal, that continue to push me to be a better person and provider for those around me.” – Cassie Wygle, therapist, Oconomowoc
“I am grateful for a supportive team that work with me at Rogers. I am grateful for my job here, and for the opportunity to share hope and happiness each day with all of my patients. I am grateful for God, who allowed me to work here, and helps me to find the joy in each day, so that I can share that joy with my patients and fellow staff.” – Lisa Kerr, teacher, West Allis hospital
“1. My parents that gave me life. 2. My physical and mental health, because w/o my health I would not be able to accomplish my work duties and my personal life challenges. 3. My education and career. I never thought I could reach to this level in education and my job. It took me years one semester at a time when I could afford school to get hear. It was worth every sacrifice.” – Ricardo M. Perez, Therapist 1, West Allis
“My beautiful, compassionate, kind little boy. My support system. My strength and resilience.” – Jenna Jackson, behavioral specialist, Oconomowoc
“I am SO grateful for my furry support and animal friend, Walter. He is the best snuggly guy and sweetest cat around. He always can make my day brighter!:) I am grateful for my job opportunities. I am so grateful to have income and to have ways to support myself. Beyond that, I am grateful for the experiences, growth, and learning opportunities at my jobs to continue helping me excel in life. I am always grateful for the sun.” – Miranda Solveson, MHT II, Oconomowoc
“Having two wild and curious children that are often my best teachers.” – Michelle Young, clinical services supervisor, St. Paul
“-My family members -Gym classes -A good old cup of coffee!” – Tiffany Murphy, therapist, Philadelphia
