How A Gratitude Journal Can Help with Anxiety and Depression

13 days ago

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The author received a distressing phone call about their partner's potential breast cancer diagnosis.
Despite the grim news, the author found solace in maintaining routines like dressing up and writing in a gratitude journal.
The gratitude journal, a practice of noting three daily positives, helped the author cope during difficult times.
The author highlights the mental health crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with increased anxiety and depression rates.
The concept of the gratitude journal was inspired by comedian Louie Anderson and the book 'The Happiness Advantage' by Shawn Achor.
Achor's 'Tetris Effect' principle suggests that practicing gratitude can rewire the brain to focus more on positive aspects of life.
The author acknowledges that while gratitude journaling doesn't cure depression, it helps in recognizing and appreciating small joys in life.
The author shares specific entries from their gratitude journal, reflecting moments of happiness and relief amidst personal and global crises.
The story concludes with the uplifting news that the author's partner did not have cancer, a moment of profound gratitude.

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