As the world marks International Day of Happiness on March 20, renowned doctor, author and well-being expert Dr Mark Rowe is emphasising the transformative power of gratitude in fostering happiness and emotional resilience. Dr Rowe highlights the increasing prevalence of what he calls 'Gratitude Deficiency Syndrome'—a state where individuals struggle to appreciate the positives in life, leading to heightened stress, anxiety, and overall life dissatisfaction.
According to Dr Rowe, gratitude is more than just an emotion; it is a practice that can rewire the brain for positivity and well-being: “Science shows that gratitude has profound effects on mental and physical health, from reducing stress to improving sleep and boosting overall happiness. By consciously acknowledging the good in our lives, we shift our focus from scarcity to abundance, enhancing our overall well-being.”
In today's fast-paced, hyper-connected world, many individuals are experiencing a chronic lack of gratitude—what Dr Rowe has termed 'Gratitude Deficiency Syndrome: "This condition arises when people become so absorbed in daily stressors, comparisons, and negative self-talk that they fail to recognise and appreciate the positives in their lives. Symptoms may include chronic dissatisfaction, heightened anxiety, and a persistent focus on what is lacking rather than what is present.
“The constant exposure to social media and external pressures can make people feel like they are never enough or that their lives are lacking, creating FOMO. This mindset can have a serious impact on emotional well-being, fuelling a cycle of negativity and stress.”
To combat ‘Gratitude Deficiency Syndrome’ and promote happiness, Dr Rowe recommends simple but effective daily practices:
Gratitude journaling – Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you are grateful for. This helps train the mind to focus on the positives.
Express appreciation – Make it a habit to tell others you appreciate them, whether through a text message, a handwritten note, or a simple “thank you".
Mindfulness and reflection – Spend time in nature, practice deep breathing, or meditate to stay present and recognise the beauty in everyday moments.
Acts of kindness – Helping others through small acts of kindness can boost your own happiness while spreading positivity.
Limit social media consumption – Reducing exposure to curated, idealised images online can help people focus more on their own lives and blessings rather than comparisons.
As the world comes together to celebrate happiness, Dr Rowe encourages individuals to make gratitude a cornerstone of their daily lives: “By practicing gratitude, we can create a ripple effect of positivity—not just within ourselves, but in our communities and beyond. Happiness is not just about external success; it is about appreciating what we have, fostering meaningful relationships, and finding joy in the present moment.”
For more practical tips and insights on health and wellbeing, you can follow Dr Mark Rowe on social media or see his website, www.drmarkrowe.com
