**4. Conclusion**

Positive psychology theories and empirical findings have shed light on how gratitude contributes to happiness and well-being. Theoretical frameworks highlight the role gratitude plays in enhancing interpersonal relationships and in promoting enduring positive change by expanding perspectives and action possibilities.

### *Focusing on Gratitude: Implications for Mental Health DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.107286*

Numerous studies have shown that gratitude relates to less psychological distress, greater psychological well-being, and improved physical health. Research has uncovered several situations in which gratitude may be particularly beneficial such as the workplace, romantic relationships, and aging.

Importantly, gratitude exercises have been developed that can effectively promote well-being. Two examples highlighted in this chapter involve maintaining a gratitude journal and writing gratitude letters. These interventions are simple to complete, are not time intensive, and are inexpensive to implement. Thus, they can be practiced by anyone who is interested in practicing gratitude and who has the ability to engage in reflection and writing exercises. These interventions could easily be modified for individuals who do not enjoy writing or who are unable to write. For example, gratitude journals and gratitude letters could be constructed through audio or video recordings instead of writing. Gratitude interventions could also be modified to allow participants to draw upon their talents in creative and/or performing arts. Gratitude exercises can incorporate photography, painting, sculpting, creative writing, or song writing. Research is needed to systematically examine the effectiveness of these variations on gratitude interventions because offering gratitude interventions that match the interests and talents of participants may improve the likelihood that they will complete the intervention and continue to practice gratitude afterward.

Most empirically validated gratitude interventions are designed to be completed individually. Researchers have not extensively examined the possible benefits of delivering gratitude interventions in a group format. Other group members can serve as role models and sources of inspiration for participants. Group interventions also enable participants to build new interpersonal relationships while working on gratitude. This could be particularly important for people who are experiencing social isolation. In a group format, participants can receive reinforcement and encouragement from other group members, which may increase their motivation to complete gratitude exercises.

Another important area for researchers to consider is whether there are any contraindications to participating in gratitude interventions. For instance, do gratitude interventions that are implemented at work decrease motivation for employees to address workplace problems with their supervisors? Do gratitude interventions among romantic couples decrease motivation to address problems in the relationship? Are relationship focused gratitude interventions counterproductive for individuals who have difficulty asserting their needs in the relationship? Do some individuals experience shame or distress over their difficulties experiencing, expressing, or receiving messages of gratitude? Researchers need to provide more insight into which individuals are most likely to benefit from gratitude interventions. Although more work is needed, research to date has convincingly demonstrated that gratitude has positive benefits. Individuals who are seeking to reduce distress, enhance positive feelings, improve their health, and strengthen their relationships may wish to consider ways to increase gratitude in their lives.
