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Psychological impact of gratitude on mental health

Overview

Psychological studies examine the relationship between gratitude and mental well-being, particularly in the context of the ‘hedonic treadmill’—the tendency for individuals to return to a baseline level of happiness after positive events. This phenomenon, along with the ‘Better-Than-Now Bias,’ can prevent high achievers from maintaining long-term satisfaction.

Recent research, including a 2023 meta-analysis of 64 randomized studies, indicates that gratitude exercises are linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additional benefits noted include increased optimism, lower blood pressure, and improved sleep quality. To maximize these effects, experts such as psychologist Robert Emmons suggest practicing sincere gratitude, such as through journaling, with a focus on people and meaningful reasons rather than material objects.

Entities

Indiana University Bloomington · University of California, Davis · Robert Emmons · University of Denver

Timeline

  1. 5 days ago

    [HEALTH] 2 sources
    Psychology research links gratitude to improved mental health

    Psychological research suggests that gratitude exercises can improve mental health, increase optimism, and lower blood pressure, serving as a beneficial complement to mental health care.

  2. 8 days ago

    [CULTURE] 2 sources
    Psychology of gratitude and the hedonic treadmill

    Psychological research suggests that gratitude can counter the hedonic treadmill and the tendency for high achievers to overlook current successes in favor of future goals.

Sources

bitcoinethereumnews.com · psychologytoday.com · santaclarachurchofchrist.com · slovenskenovice.si