Positive psychology: gratitude and its role within mental health nursing

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This article has looked at the development of gratitude as a positive psychology intervention from a theoretical and applied perspective. It clearly states the importance of not overlooking the conceptual complexities surrounding it and points out that research needs to be aware of its potential ambiguity. Scientific research surrounding gratitude is relatively new with many questions ready to investigate so it opens up the mental health setting as an area rich for potential exploration in gratitude because of its many benefits in motivation, improved health and positive relationships. It also highlights areas that are more complex, such as how using gratitude can control behaviour and its perception following a traumatic event. There are of course a range of factors that will influence whether individuals are likely to engage in these interventions or not and how much benefit will be derived. However, gratitude is one of the most effective positive psychology tools available and can be used in improving our own wellbeing.

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