Keeping a grateful heart may do more than improve your mood — it could also extend your lifespan. A new study from Harvard University suggests that the more gratitude a person feels, the lower their risk of mortality.
The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry in July 2024, analyzed data from 49,275 American women with an average age of 79. Researchers assessed participants’ gratitude levels in 2016 using a six-item questionnaire and then tracked their health records over the next four years. The findings revealed that those who expressed greater gratitude had a significantly lower risk of death from all causes, including cardiovascular disease.
A reduction in mortality risk
Participants who ranked in the top third for gratitude levels had a 9 percent lower risk of death over the following four years compared to those in the lowest third. Even after adjusting for factors such as age, education, income, social engagement, religious beliefs, physical health, lifestyle habits, cognitive function, and mental well-being, the results remained consistent.
This study is the first to establish a direct correlation between gratitude and longevity in older adults. While a 9 percent difference may not seem drastic, researchers emphasize that gratefulness is an accessible and simple practice that anyone can cultivate.
Grateful people tend to be healthier and more socially connected
The study also found that participants with higher levels of gratitude tended to be younger within the age group, more likely to be married or in a committed relationship, and had higher socioeconomic status. They also displayed greater social engagement, stronger religious faith, and a more optimistic outlook on life. Overall, these individuals reported better health and lower levels of depression.
Researchers believe gratitude may promote longevity by fostering a stronger sense of purpose and social connection, helping older adults navigate the challenges of aging. Those who regularly practice this are more likely to invest in meaningful relationships with family and friends and participate in fulfilling social activities.
Gratitude triggers dopamine, enhancing overall well-being
A study by the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) sheds light on why gratitude profoundly impacts health. The research found that grateful individuals exhibit higher activity in the hypothalamus, a brain region regulating essential functions like eating, sleeping, metabolism, and stress response.
This increased brain activity may explain why gratefulness contributes to overall well-being, influencing everything from improved sleep and increased physical activity to reduced depression and pain. Additionally, this directly activates brain regions linked to dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and motivation. This neurological connection may be why grateful individuals experience sustained happiness and emotional resilience.
How to cultivate gratitude in daily life
According to Tyler VanderWeele, co-director of Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program and a lead researcher in the study, gratefulness is a skill anyone can develop. People can cultivate a more grateful mindset by simply recognizing the positive aspects of life and expressing appreciation.
Practicing gratitude can be as simple as making it a family tradition to share what you’re thankful for during meals. Writing thank-you letters or starting a gratitude journal are also effective ways to reinforce positive emotions and enhance overall well-being.
With gratitude offering both emotional and physical benefits, embracing this simple yet powerful practice may be a key to living a longer and healthier life.
Translated by Eva
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