The Transformative Power of Gratitude: Healing from Sadness, Trauma and Loss
How do we get out of that ‘sadness, loss and trauma’? Do we ever truly recover?
These are questions I am often asked during training and in presenting. The answer is YES. I do emphasize the value of a positive attitude and creating a self-care tool kit for coping skills and it takes time (everyone is different) self patience and effort. Yes, it takes effort.
We cannot escape the troubles of living. Life is filled with ups and downs, and we all face moments of sadness, madness, mental health, grief, trauma and loss. These experiences can be emotionally challenging and often leave us feeling overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of negativity. It can happen to the best of us with the best coping skills and support. I got stuck in that negative thinking hamster wheel.
However, one of the most powerful tools we have to navigate these difficult times and improve our mental health is gratitude. That feeling of thankful. Gratitude has the remarkable ability to help us move forward, find healing, and discover a renewed sense of purpose and happiness. Gratitude has an impact on our mental health, and how it can help us overcome adversity and find hope. Finding gratitude in all things has certainly helped me along the journey to good mental health and in living with PTSD from workplace bullying /violence. To illustrate these points, I will also draw upon the wisdom of Wayne Dyer, a renowned self-help author and motivational speaker.
The Power of Gratitude:
How do you define gratitude in your life? Gratitude is more than just saying “thank you” when someone does something kind for us. It’s a profound shift in perspective that can transform the way we experience life. It can take mindfulness to get into that mind shift. Gratitude involves acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of our lives, even in the face of adversity. When we cultivate gratitude, we train our minds to focus on what we have rather than what we lack, leading to a host of mental and emotional benefits. It has be feel authentic.
Wayne Dyer once said, “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” This statement encapsulates the essence of gratitude beautifully. We have to acknowledge there are things, events and people we cannot change. By changing our perspective and choosing to see the good even in difficult situations, we can change the way we experience those situations. To me that is empowering, knowing we can change how we react, respond, and what we retain.
Gratitude and Mental Health:
- Reducing Stress: Gratitude has been shown to reduce stress levels. When we express gratitude, our brains release dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitters. This can help counteract the effects of stress hormones like cortisol, leading to a more relaxed and positive state of mind. Finding inner peace during turmoil is part of coping in a healthy way.
- Improved Relationships: Gratitude can strengthen our relationships. When we express appreciation for the people in our lives, it fosters a sense of connection and trust. People recognize if you are authentic in your gratitude. This, in turn, can lead to improved mental well-being and a support network during trauma, stress and loss.
- Enhanced Resilience: Gratitude helps build emotional resilience, which in turn helps us bounce back. It encourages us to find meaning and growth in adversity, rather than dwelling on the negative aspects of our experiences. This resilience is crucial for moving forward in life after trauma or loss.
Moving Forward with Gratitude:
- Healing from Trauma: Wayne Dyer once said, “You leave old habits behind by starting out with the thought, ‘I release the need for this in my life’.” This is particularly relevant when healing from trauma. Gratitude can help us release the need to hold onto pain and resentment, allowing us to heal and move forward.
- Coping with Loss: Loss is an inevitable part of life, but gratitude can help us navigate it with grace. By cherishing the memories and the time we had with our loved ones, we can find solace and strength in the face of grief.
- Finding Hope: Gratitude is a beacon of hope in the darkest of times. It reminds us that even in our lowest moments, there are still things to be thankful for.
Gratitude is a powerful force that can help us transcend sadness, trauma, and loss. It transforms our perspective and ennriches our mental health. It empowers us to move forward in life with renewed purpose and resilience.
As Wayne Dyer wisely noted, “Change the way you look at things,” and you’ll find that gratitude has the remarkable ability to change your life for the better.
Happiness is a choice, having a positive attitude helps us in all aspects of our life and it is a choice.