Day 3 of Counting Blessings- 7 Scientifically Proven Benefits of a Gratitude List!


Here are 7 scientifically proven benefits of a Gratitude List:

1. Gratitude can open the door to more relationships. Not only does saying “thank you” constitute good manners, but showing appreciation can help you win new friends, according to a 2014 study published in Emotion. This study demonstrated that thanking a new acquaintance makes them more likely to pursue an ongoing relationship. So whether you thank a stranger for holding the door or send a thank-you note to that colleague who helped you with a project, acknowledging other people’s contributions can lead to new opportunities for new friendships!
 
2. Gratitude can improve your physical health. People who are grateful experience fewer aches and pains and report feeling healthier than other people, according to a 2012 study published in Personality and Individual Differences. People who are grateful are also more likely to take care of their health. In particular, they exercise more often and are more likely to attend regular check-ups with doctor visits. These behaviors lead to longevity.
 
3. Gratitude can improve psychological health. Gratitude can minimize a multitude of toxic emotions, such as envy, resentment, frustration, and regret. Robert Emmons, who is a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research demonstrates that gratitude increases feelings of happiness and decreases feelings of depression.

4. Having gratitude can enhance empathy and reduce aggression. People who demonstrate gratitude are more likely to behave in a prosocial manner, even in situations when others behave less kindly, according to a 2012 study by the University of Kentucky. Study participants who ranked higher on gratitude scales were less likely to want to retaliate against others, even when given negative feedback. Reportedly, they experienced more sensitivity and empathy toward other people and had a decreased desire to want to seek revenge.

5. Individuals who are grateful get better sleep. Writing in a gratitude journal improves sleep, according to a 2011 study published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being. Try and spend just 15 minutes writing down a few things that you are thankful for before bed, and you may sleep better and longer.
 
6. Gratitude can improve your self-esteem. A 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology revealed that gratitude increased athletes’ self-esteem, which us an essential component to optimal performance. Other studies have demonstrated that gratitude reduces social comparisons. Rather than becoming resentful toward people who have more money or better jobs, people who practice gratitude are more able to appreciate other people’s accomplishments.
 
7. Gratitude can help your mental health and emotions. For years, research has shown gratitude not only reduces stress but that it can also assist in healing from trauma. A 2006 study published in Behavior Research and Therapy found that Vietnam War veterans with higher levels of gratitude experienced lower rates of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Further, a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that gratitude was a major contributor to individuals being more resilient. 

Reference- Psychology Today, https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201504/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-gratitude 

What are you thankful for?

I am thankful for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

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 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure














Diane GammonComment
Day 2 of My Gratitude List- What Are You Thankful For?
Day 2- What are you thankful for today?

Write it down. 

Make yourself a gratitude journal.



I am thankful for my daughters/ the opportunity to be a mother!

Sooooooooooo thankful for these girls and for how they have lit up my life!

And I am thankful for my babies in Heaven whom I will be reunited with again some day. 

Count your blessings!

 CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure















Diane GammonComment
Welcome November! Start Your Gratitude List!
I love October and November. 

I love the fall weather and how November makes me think of my blessings. 

I want to challenge you to write down something that you are thankful for- every day of November.

When we are down in spirits, it can be difficult to focus on our blessings. However, it can also lift our spirits. 

Day 1.............What are you thankful for? 


I am thankful for my granddaughters!  I am thankful that I am a grandmother to 4 granddaughters and a grandson in Heaven.
 

Start your gratitude list today! 
What are you thankful for?

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure















Diane GammonComment
Happy Halloween!
                                                          My youngest granddaughter
Diane GammonComment
The Only Failure- Is In Not Trying
An Oldie but Goodie!
When many of us think of failure, we think of things not working out after we have tried something. This is not failure. 

We think that failure is not accomplishing a goal we have set. This is not failure either. 

Failure is not setting a goal in the first place. 
 
Failure is in not trying at all.

It might be time to change the way that you look at failure.

The only Failure is in never ever even trying.

Also, you may have to attempt something more than once. You may have to attempt something a dozen, a hundred, or even a thousand times. 

If it is important to you, the "no's" will not hold you back but rather be used as a teaching tool on how to try harder and differently the next attempt! 

Just do not stop trying!

And- do not compare yourself to others!  

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”Anonymous

When many of us think of failure, we think of things not working out after we have tried something. This is not failure. 

We think that failure is not accomplishing a goal we have set. This is not failure either. 

Failure is not setting a goal in the first place. 
 
Failure is in not trying at all.

It might be time to change the way that you look at failure.

The only Failure is in never ever even trying.

Also, you may have to attempt something more than once. You may have to attempt something a dozen, a hundred, or even a thousand times. 

If it is important to you, the "no's" will not hold you back but rather be used as a teaching tool on how to try harder and differently the next attempt! 

Just do not stop trying!

And- do not compare yourself to others!  

“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”Anonymous

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure

Diane GammonComment
Pray For Safety & Peace
With protesting going on in my hometown this weekend, I ask for prayers for everyone's safety and especially for law enforcement. 

Also, a gentle reminder to be kind to others.

ALL lives matter!

God Bless, Diane 
Diane GammonComment
Make It a Good Day- And Don't Give Up!
Just Don't Try and ....have a good day- Make it a good day yourself!

You have a better chance of reaching your goals in life if you are clear about them, you come up with a plan and then you work toward them until you achieve them!

You are in control of your life. 

Take control of your life and manage it------ so that your life and stress doesn't manage you!

 The secret of success (and healing) is to get started and never give up!

Make it a good day and take steps toward your goals in life!

          Your only limit is yourself.

Reference- Tracy, B. (2016) Just Shut Up and it! 

You are capable of making healthy and positive decisions today!

Demonstrate self-love and make the most of your day and life!

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure













Diane GammonComment
My Favorite Delicous (Healthy) Sandwich Ingredients
I  spread the almond butter on the bread and then I cut up either strawberries or apple slices, then I drizzle some raw organic honey- and then I add fresh organic kale right out of the garden. It is very tasty and healthy. The bread is made from sprouts. 

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure

 
Add caption



Diane GammonComment
Alcoholism- The Dangers..........

The Dangers of Drinking Alcohol

Driving accidents

violence

sexual diseases from unprotected sex

abusive behaviors

Death from liver cirrhosis and acute pancreatitis

Irreversible neurological damage

increased risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer 

alcohol dependence 

depression 

relationship problems

loss of employment

Fetal alcohol syndrome

Spontaneous abortion 

low birth weight  


CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure















Diane GammonComment
Your Beliefs & Habits- How They Formulate Your Actions
It is estimated that 95% of your actions are due to your habits.

Your actions and behaviors are determined by your habits of belief and how you are programmed in your mind.

Thus, the biggest obstacles of any type of success is your negative habits. Some of these habits are carried out unconsciously.

Habits are learned.

Further, the worse habits are based on how you self limit yourself. This is done in your thought process and then in your behaviors. 

The demonstration of 'learned helplessness' then often kicks in. 

Moreover, fear is the biggest roadblock to change and healing. 

It is helpful to work on changing one habit at a time. 

Chang your thought process and change your life!

Do not make excuses for yourself. 

Create better habits and start to live more abundantly!

What is the first habit that you can work on changing?

Reference- Brian Tracey, "Just Shut Up and Do It!" 2016. Simple Truths Publishing


CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!
 


 By Diane Davidson 
                               Gammon M.S.
         Clinical Mental Health Counselor

 Open Full-Time Days - Monday through Saturday
With Evening Appointments
615-556-8406
Email- Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Sliding Scale Fee for Individual Counseling Sessions 

Free Support Groups for: Depression, Anxiety, Panic, Hopelessness, Trauma, PTSD, Abuse, and Grief and Loss (Including Miscarriage/ Stillbirth/ Infant loss)

Disclaimer- I am not a doctor and I am not giving out medical advice. My blogs are for information and inspirational purposes. Please consult your doctor before starting a new health regimen.

Diane Davidson Gammon MS is clinically supervised by Michael Loftis LCSW as she pursues  LPC-MHSP licensure






Diane GammonComment