Does gratitude really make us happier?

According to a growing body of research, yes—it really can! Those who regularly practice gratitude may experience more positive emotions like optimism, hope, satisfaction, and a sense of connection with other people—which can ultimately lead to more happiness in the long run. “Grateful people experience more happiness and satisfaction than others,” says Wiley.

Studies even show that living in a state of continued gratitude can help reduce the risk and symptoms of depression, according to Wiley. In fact, one study conducted in 2005 found that writing and delivering a letter of gratitude to someone for five days in a row resulted in an increase in self-reported happiness scores—and a reduction of depressive symptoms—for at least one month afterwards.