All the tools, all the approaches, all the medications, and all the mantras are all important in addiction recovery. However, something might be overlooked, and it is pretty powerful. It is thankful. Indeed, gratitude in recovery is one of the secret weapons that can help you find lasting recovery.
How? Gratitude affects our brains and our mental health in surprising ways. The results can be a boon to recovery and overall wellness in life.
We will delve into how adopting a mindset of gratitude can make a difference in getting help for an addiction and maintaining recovery. As well we will offer some gratitude practices you can try today.
What Exactly Is Gratitude in Recovery?
As you might guess, using gratitude in recovery for how it can influence our health is more than just saying “Thank you.” It is a mindset and an attitude. It is an overall approach to the world, how you perceive it, and life. It starts with mindful recognition of good things in our lives. These things might be big or small. Gratitude is best when it recognizes all good things regardless of their “size.”
Gratitude for recovery is a mental habit of acknowledging the positive aspects of life, even when times are tough.
What Does Gratitude in Recovery Do to Our Brains?
Here’s where things get interesting: gratitude has a measurable impact on our brains. Some parts of our brains are responsible for creating the reward system, particularly the hypothalamus and the ventral tegmental area (VTA). These areas provide pleasure and give us the good feelings that are part of our reward system and motivation. Cutting edge Neuroscience is proving that gratitude activates this center.
Interestingly, this area is the same one that is hijacked by substances when you have an addiction.
When we express gratitude and habitually do so, our brain releases dopamine and serotonin. Since these are the feel-good chemicals, we get a sense of well-being. With this, a positive cycle begins. The more we practice gratitude, the more our brains become attuned to the good things in our lives. As a result, we rewire our brains to become better at being happy and focus on what is good instead of dwelling on the negatives.
How Gratitude Affects Us Mentally
This makes gratitude a powerful antidote to negative emotions and thoughts. Since negativity breeds and ignites our anxiety and depression, gratitude can become a force that heals us from those things, bringing us overall emotional resilience.
Remember, what we focus on, our minds see more of. And if we are focusing on what we are grateful for, we will see less of what is missing and more of what we have.
In addiction treatment, where negative thought patterns often dominate, introducing gratitude can be like opening a window in a stuffy room. It becomes a way to combat shame and guilt, regret and pain, and it can offer a perspective that changes our behavior.
Gratitude in Overall Health and Wellness
It gets better—gratitude also boosts our physical health! Studies have shown that people who regularly practice gratitude experience better sleep, lower blood pressure, and a stronger immune system. Gratitude encourages healthier lifestyle choices and fosters better relationships, both critical in sustaining long-term recovery.
Gratitude and Addiction Treatment
Right now, you have things to be grateful for. If you are in recovery or addiction treatment, even more so. It is the practice of recognizing this reality that makes the difference in long-term recovery.
Think of the people who have helped you get to where you are today. Maybe your family, maybe your treatment team. Think of your friends or the people you look up to. These people have all contributed to your recovery and are gifts to you.
Even just the air you breathe is a gift. You can be thankful for your physical abilities, the scene outside your window, or the presence of an animal in your life.
If you can be grateful for these things, you can see that more could come.
Reaching Out
If you are still in the clutches of addiction and you are not sure about how this affects you, try getting grateful.
Three Easy Ways to Be Grateful Right Now
Incorporating gratitude into your daily life doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are three simple ways to start:
- Keep a Gratitude Journal: Spend just a few minutes each day writing down three things you’re grateful for. They don’t have to be big—sometimes the smallest joys are the most powerful.
- Express Gratitude to Others: Whether it’s a quick text, a phone call, or a face-to-face conversation, take the time to thank someone who has made a difference in your life. This not only boosts your mood but also strengthens your relationships.
- Practice Mindful Appreciation: Take moments to pause and appreciate your surroundings throughout your day. Whether it’s enjoying a warm cup of coffee, feeling the sun on your face, or hearing the laughter of a loved one, these small moments of appreciation add up.
Start Your Journey with Gratitude
In the challenging path of addiction recovery, gratitude can be a sign of hope. As you grow in your attitude, you have the potential to see good and have some power in your future.
Remember, recovery is not just about overcoming addiction—it’s about embracing a healthier, more fulfilling life. And gratitude is the key that can unlock that door.
Do you need help finding freedom from addiction?
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, consider how a mindset of gratitude could complement your journey toward recovery. At EagleCrest Recovery, we have a host of tools that will help you find sobriety and create a life of wellness and healing. Call our team today to find out more about our program: 844-439-7627.
