Maximize Love, Manage Stress
This Thanksgiving season is off to a very difficult start for many families across Richland County. The ongoing government shutdown has temporarily paused the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), leaving tens of thousands of residents struggling to put food on the table. Local food banks are doing their best, but resources are stretched thin — and the stress is real.
When parents face financial strain, it affects more than the family budget. Research shows that chronic stress can make it harder for caregivers to stay emotionally regulated, which in turn impacts children’s sense of safety and calm (Conger et al., Family Stress Model, 2002). Yet social scientists and psychologists agree: gratitude is one of the most effective, low-cost ways to restore emotional balance and strengthen relationships.
A growing body of evidence shows that simple gratitude practices reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and boost overall well-being (Emmons & McCullough, Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2003; De Steno et al., Frontiers in Psychology, 2021; UCLA Health, 2023). Even brief, daily acts of thankfulness can help families feel more grounded.
Try These Gratitude Habits at Home
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- Share gratitude aloud during mealtime or bedtime: Establishes consistent family rituals that lower stress hormones and foster predictability — which is vital for children’s sense of safety (Center on the Developing Child, Harvard University, 2016).
- Pause and express thanks for help received — from neighbors, food banks, or family advocates: Mindful gratitude deepens emotional awareness. This engages the prefrontal cortex and helps both adults and children slow down and connect (UCLA Health, 2023).
- Redirect your thoughts: When frustration or negativity sets in, intentionally look for one small positive aspect of the moment. Shifting attention toward positive thoughts help reduce rumination and stress (Gross & John, Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2003).
- Share your gratitude with others: Tell someone why you appreciate them or invite your family to share what they’re grateful for each night at dinner. Expressing gratitude aloud increases oxytocin (“bonding hormone”) and strengthens family and community ties. Children who hear and express thanks develop empathy and social connectedness (Algoe, Social and Personality Psychology Compass, 2012).
Even in hard times, these small moments of love and reflection help families maximize love and manage stress — creating calm, connection, and hope for the days ahead. Please review the list below for local food resource assistance.
View and download the list here.
