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A simple ‘thanks’ may boost well-being, from the Harvard Mental Health Letter

November 2011

Before digging into Thanksgiving dinner, it is customary to take a moment to give thanks for the people and events that positively shape our lives. But, as the November 2011 issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter reveals, it may be beneficial to express gratitude on a more regular basis. 

Research shows that gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Reflecting on what one is grateful for results in more positive emotions, greater satisfaction from good experiences, improved health, greater ability to deal with adversity, and stronger relationships.

Editor in Chief Dr. Michael Miller notes that whether someone is thankful for past blessings, present happenings, or is focused on remaining positive for the future, expressing gratitude forces him to refocus on what he has instead of what he lacks. And, while any expression of gratitude is likely to boost morale, like a muscle, this mental state grows stronger with use and practice.

This month’s issue reviews the benefits of gratitude and offers advice on how to cultivate this state of mind, from writing a thank you note to praying or meditating.

Read the full-length article: "In praise of gratitude"

Also in this issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter

  • References for "In praise of gratitude"
  • References for "Depressed parent, depressed child?"
  • References for "Seven common memory problems"
  • In Praise of Gratitude
  • Depressed parent, depressed child?
  • Seven common memory problems
  • In Brief: Study suggests how nicotine suppresses appetite
  • In Brief: Weighing psychotherapy options for social anxiety disorder
  • In Brief: Encouraging news about borderline personality disorder
  • In Brief: Study suggests a link between sleep-disordered breathing and later cognitive decline
  • Ask the doctor: Is it possible to become addicted to chocolate?

More Harvard Health News »

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Harvard Health Publications publishes four monthly newsletters--Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Women's Health Watch, Harvard Men's Health Watch, and Harvard Heart Letter--as well as more than 50 special health reports and books drawing on the expertise of the 8,000 faculty physicians at Harvard Medical School and its world-famous affiliated hospitals.