Amidst Global Challenges, Experts Urge Focus on Gratitude for Mental Wellbeing
Boston, MA – As global events continue to fuel anxiety and hardship, mental health professionals at the Massachusetts General Hospital’s Clay Center for Young Healthy Minds are issuing a timely call to prioritize gratitude as a powerful tool for navigating challenging times. In a recent post, the Center outlines a extensive approach to fostering wellbeing, emphasizing connection, self-care, and proactive strategies for combating negativity.
The advice comes at a moment when many are grappling with a sense of deprivation – whether economic insecurity, social isolation, or the emotional toll of ongoing crises. The Clay Center’s recommendations aren’t about ignoring these realities, but rather about building resilience within them.
Drawing on the work of Martin Seligman, a leading figure in positive psychology, the Center highlights the importance of focusing on elements contributing to wellbeing, as defined by the PERMA model (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment) and its expanded version, PERMA +4, which adds Physical Health, Growth Mindset, positive Work Surroundings, and Economic Security. The Center encourages individuals to honestly assess these areas in their own lives,identifying both strengths to be grateful for and areas ripe for positive change.
“People are going through a hard time-all of us,” the post acknowledges, emphasizing the need for empathy over unsolicited advice.
The center’s recommendations extend beyond introspection, advocating for active engagement in practices known to boost emotional health. These include:
* Creative Expression: Utilizing art forms like music, dance, journaling, and singing to process and release difficult emotions.
* Nature Immersion: Taking walks and connecting with the natural world to foster gratitude.
* Digital Detox: Reducing exposure to possibly overwhelming and frequently enough inaccurate media.
* Collective Self-Care: Engaging in practices like meditation, yoga, exercise, and prioritizing sleep, both individually and as a community.
* Strengthening Connections: Prioritizing time spent with loved ones to combat feelings of isolation.
* Cognitive Behavioral Techniques: Employing role-playing exercises to challenge negative thought patterns.
* Acts of Service: Contributing to the wellbeing of others through acts of kindness and generosity.
* Expressing appreciation: Making a “gratitude visit” to acknowledge the positive impact of someone in your life.
* Joining Purpose-Driven Groups: Finding strength and motivation through involvement in organizations dedicated to positive change.
The Clay Center’s core message, echoing their year-round mantra, is simple: “Don’t worry alone.” By actively cultivating gratitude and fostering connection, individuals can navigate challenging times with greater resilience and hope.
