Gratitude is a great stress reduction technique for caregivers. It’s a simple, but truly effective way to combat stress. In this piece, we explain what gratitude means, share two positive effects of gratitude that reduce caregiver stress, and suggest an easy way to add a little gratitude to your day.
Gratitude is Proven to Reduce Stress
Gratitude is free, quick, and can be done anytime, anywhere.
Studies show that practicing gratitude can make you happier, lower stress, protect you from depression, help you sleep better, boost your immune system, and improve your relationships.
But it’s important to know that gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring negative feelings.
Gratitude Isn't About Ignoring Bad Things
Nobody is suggesting that caregivers should suck it up and be thankful no matter how tough things get.
Gratitude is about noticing that there are always some positive things in your life, no matter how dark things may seem.
Being aware of that helps you gain a different perspective. It also lets you see that things are not always 100% terrible.
During tough times, it can be comforting to know that.
2 Positive Effects of Gratitude for Caregivers
1. It helps you become more optimistic
Getting into the habit of noticing and being thankful for the good things (small or big) improves your overall attitude.
It also trains your brain to become naturally more optimistic.
2. It helps you focus on what you DO have
Instead of getting sucked into a negative spiral about what you don’t have, use gratitude to pay attention to what you do have.
Make a conscious effort to focus on the people, situations, and things that improve life.
Use a Simple Gratitude Journal to Reduce Caregiver Stress
One of the best (and simplest) ways to practice gratitude is to keep a journal.
This can be as simple as a paper notebook, a text document on your computer, or a notes app on your mobile device.
The point is to give you a place to write down what makes you grateful. There’s no right or wrong way to do it.
A few suggestions to get started:
- Set aside a few minutes each day to think about and write down one or more things you’re grateful for.
- Read over your journal when you’re feeling down or extra stressed. Reviewing your list is a good way to boost your mood and shift your perspective.
- Notice big things (for example, I’m grateful to have a caring person in my life) and small things (for example, I enjoyed the weather today)—everything counts!
Practicing gratitude by keeping a journal is free, easy, and reduces stress. Why not try it for a few weeks to see how you feel?
Recommended for you:
- 4 Ways to Reduce Caregiver Stress with Positive Self Talk
- Get Positive Effects of Gratitude in 10 Days: Stress Relief for Caregivers
- 7 Ways of Dealing with Caregiver Guilt That Improve Health
About the Author
Connie Chow
Connie was a hands-on caregiver for her grandmother for 20 years. (Grandma made it to 101 years old!) She knows how challenging, overwhelming, and all-consuming caring for an older adult can be. She also knows how important support is — especially in the form of practical solutions, valuable resources, and self-care tips.
Mom is 105 & I’m blessed to still have her. I’m grateful every day. She’s in perfect health.
That’s amazing!