The power of gratitude

In the UK, studies have shown that nine out of 10 adults suffered from high or extreme levels of stress in the past year, and that it is now the single main cause of workplace absence. The story is the same on a global level: 62% reported their daily lives being disrupted by stress, with 39% taking time off work as a result.

In the face of such an enormous and under-reported problem, no single intervention by any company can be a panacea. Instead of seeking a silver bullet, an employer can recognise that small steps can make a big difference – and a focus on gratitude can be a valuable tool here.

There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that the regular practice of gratitude can have a significant, positive impact on many aspects of health and wellbeing. Gratitude is an active coping mechanism for anxiety as it promotes focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future – traits which are common among those who suffer from anxiety.

There is also a clear connection between practising gratitude and low levels of depression, suggesting a link between gratitude and improved self-esteem.

There also appears to be a similar correlation between gratitude and an improvement in some aspects of physical health. Several studies have shown that the practice of gratitude can have a positive effect on heart health, not only in the slowing of heart rate, but also in consistently lowering blood pressure.

Sleep is also beneficial, as having positive rather than negative thoughts last thing at night is typically a prelude to better rest.

Gratitude is a health benefit with a very low barrier to entry; no previous experience or large time commitment is required. It can therefore be an excellent way for employers to make a meaningful intervention on their team members’ behalf.

At Glitnor Group, as part of a wider Mental Health Awareness Month initiative, we have implemented a gratitude board, encouraging staff to post and share moments of gratitude within their day. Team members can either engage by sharing their stories, or read and recognise the contributions of others – the latter being a gateway step to the personal practice of gratitude.

We initially found it beneficial to provide examples and emphasise that most moments of gratitude are typically small-scale and individual. We believe this group focus will be habit-building and, anecdotally, have reason to hope many team members will implement this practice in their daily lives on an ongoing basis.

Mental health issues can take so many forms that it can be very difficult for an employer to make a positive intervention that works for a large number of people. Gratitude, with its flexibility, simplicity and personalised nature is one such example, and Glitnor’s experience is that it is a very effective tool for promoting positive change.

Tom Clover joined Glitnor Group in January 2024 as communications and engagement manager. A veteran of more than 20 years in the gaming industry, he began by working in betting shops in his native UK during university holidays, before moving to Gibraltar as a sports trader.

With a varied background including tour guiding, adult education and sports writing, he believes passionately that all workplaces should be stimulating, connected and enjoyable places to be and that strong communication is the key to achieving this.