Monthly Archives: March

For centuries the concept of gratitude and the feeling of being grateful to have been linked to physical and emotional benefits. According to psychology today “mentally strong people choose to exchange self-pity for gratitude.” Scientist can now prove that the feeling of gratitude releases an increased amount of endorphins in our brains, which lead to an influx of happiness. Psychology today has identified seven incredible benefits associated with gratitude.

1. “Gratitude opens the door to more relationships. Whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or send a thank-you note to that colleague who helped you with a project, acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities.
2. Gratitude improves physical health. Not surprisingly, grateful people are also more likely to take care of their health. They exercise more often and are more likely to attend regular check-ups, which is likely to contribute to further longevity.
3. Gratitude improves psychological health. Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, from envy and resentment to frustration and regret. Robert Emmons, a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.
4. Gratitude enhances empathy and reduces aggression. Grateful people are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner, even when others behave less kindly.
5. Grateful people sleep better. Spend just 15 minutes jotting down a few grateful sentiments before bed, and you may sleep better and longer.
6. Gratitude improves self-esteem. Rather than becoming resentful toward people who have more money or better jobs—a major factor in reduced self-esteem—grateful people are able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.
7. Gratitude increases mental strength. For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress, but it may also play a significant role in overcoming trauma.”

If you are looking for a way to sweeten up your day a little consider viewing the world as an optimist. It may take some practice turning your negative thought into grateful ones; however there are so many benefits, it could be worth it.

References:

7 Scientifically Proven Benefits of Gratitude.” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201504/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-gratitude.

When someone you love has a mental illness, your first thought may be to help them in any way possible. You may not understand their symptoms personally, but still, feel a desire to make their life simpler. Family and friends can be an incredible asset to those battling mental illness. With the love and support of peers, the psychological symptoms that accompany mental illness can feel much more manageable.

According to Mental Health America, you can begin to support your loved one today by

• “Educating yourself about the diagnosis, illness symptoms and side effects from antipsychotic treatments and other medications. Local Mental Health America affiliates, public libraries, and the Internet are useful resources to learn about mental illnesses and treatment options.
• Recognize that your family member or friend may be scared and confused after receiving a diagnosis. Though some people are relieved to receive a diagnosis and actively seek treatment, it may feel devastating to others and bring on stressful feelings.
• Listen carefully to your family member or friend and express your understanding back to him or her. Recognize the feelings he or she is experiencing and don’t discount them, even if you believe them to be symptoms of the illness.
• Encourage your family member or friend to become an active member with his or her treatment team to gain knowledge about what treatments and services will help with recovery.
• Recognize that it may take time for your family member or friend to find the proper medications and dosages that work.
• Understand that recovery from mental illness isn’t merely a matter of “just staying on one’s medications.” Self-esteem, social support and a feeling of contributing to society are also essential elements in the recovery process.”

Supporting a loved one who is suffering from mental illness a feel rewarding as well for the individual helping. Understanding that you can make a difference today in your loved ones life is a great first step.

If you think that you or your loved might be struggling with a mental illness, please contact us at 469-714-0006 or by emailing info@exulthealthcare.com. We offer compassionate services for all ages and are committed to your emotional health.

Reference:

“For Family & Friends.” Mental Health America, 18 Nov. 2013, www.mentalhealthamerica.net/family-friends.

Written by Aly Bowles – Social Media Coordinator