Contributors: Cloe Droegmiller & Sierra Olson

The Benefits of Giving Gratitude: Creating a Culture of Appreciation

Small Acts Can Make Big Impacts

At Human Services Center (HSC) gratitude isn’t just a sentiment – it’s a practice.
Small, everyday gestures create a ripple of positivity within our hospital. Here are a few simple ways to show appreciation:

• Offering help
• Holding the door
• Saying thank you
• Smiling and making eye contact
• Leaving a kind note

Why Gratitude Matters

Practicing gratitude can transform both personal and professional lives. It’s more than just being polite;
it’s about building resilience and connection.  Expressing thankfulness causes minds to keep an inventory
of what we have, even during difficult times. By practicing gratitude, we:

• Improve mood and emotional well-being
• Strengthen relationships
• Bring joy to others
• Build resilience in the face of hardship
• Encourage engagement
• Enhance coping skills

Gratitude in Action: At Work and Home

A culture of gratitude fosters stronger teams and healthier families by:

• Boosting positivity
• Improving communication and teamwork
• Enhancing retention
• Reducing stress and burnout

Gratitude at HSC

HSC is proud of the ways staff and clients embody gratitude every day.

Some favorite practices include:

• “Good News Call of the Week”
• Celebrating “Employee of the Month”
• Sharing “Good Things” at meetings
• Greeting each other warmly
• Listening to our clients
• Engaging in meaningful activities
• Supporting clients with ADLs (activities of daily living)
• Sharing wisdom and respect

As a psychiatric hospital, it is by design that these activities and recognitions are incorporated into our routines.

Appreciate the Good

Giving gratitude means intentionally recognizing and appreciating the good in your life and in others. S
aying thank you, lifting others up, and celebrating kindness can brighten your day and someone else’s.

Let’s keep the gratitude flowing.

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