How to Give Thanks Today and Every Day
This week, millions of people in the United States gather around to share their thanks for the people in their lives for Thanksgiving. It’s the perfect time of year to be reminded of all we have to be thankful for. Sometimes, saying “thank you” simply doesn’t seem like enough. That’s when it’s time to get creative! From thoughtful gestures to selfless acts of kindness, check out these ways you can show your gratitude, appreciation and thanks today and year-round.
Call Up a Friend
Everybody has their own struggles which can be consuming, especially when they aren’t expressed out loud. Call up a friend or loved one and simply offer to listen to whatever is happening in their lives. We don’t always have to aim to fix a problem in order to feel better—sometimes it just feels good to talk it out. Thank your loved one for sharing, and they’ll most likely feel compelled to ask you the same questions. This is a great way to deepen your relationships and gratitude for one another.
Speak Up
Sometimes we think about how much we appreciate somebody and we fail to actually tell them out loud. Make it a goal to vocalize the next time you’re feeling thankful for someone, no matter how big or small. If you don’t remember to tell the person in the moment, there’s always time in the future!
Take Time to Reflect
Sometimes it can feel difficult to express gratitude, especially if everything seems to be going wrong in our lives. The next time you’re feeling spent, take the time to reflect on the things that are going well in your life and the people who mean the most. Write in a journal and make a list. Meditate and think about the people or things you are grateful for.
Invite Someone to Your Table
We’re all human, and sharing a dinner table is an easy way to ignite conversation and remember that we’re all one in the same. Invite somebody new to sit at your table for a meal. You’d be surprised at just how connected we are, even if two people are different from what meets the eye.
Help Those in Need
Consider volunteering or donating this holiday season to help those in need. We live in a world filled with amazing organizations that are aiming to make our planet and communities a better place. Find an organization that resonates with you, and call to ask about available opportunities to volunteer. Many organizations do a great job of letting prospective volunteers or donors view operations and information in advance to get a better understanding of all that they do.
There are many ways you can say ‘thank you’ to the people in your life. Use these ideas both today and year round! Remember, the people in your lives will never know how much they mean to you unless you say it or show it! Next time you’re feeling down, consider reflecting and journaling to remember the things most important to you in your life.
We Are Here to Answer Your Questions
What does your organization do?
EmpathyHQ provides counseling to individuals, groups, and families and empowers communities to live authentically and thrive. We break down barriers to accessing care, offering comprehensive and accessible mental health support on your journey to health and self-discovery. We are here to pave the way to a better you—and a better community.
With over 12,000 individuals benefiting from 100,000 hours of evidence-based mental health care and case management in the past four years alone, EmpathyHQ is making a tangible difference in the lives of Texans.
For a list of specific programs and services we provide, visit our Get Support section.
How can I get involved?
We welcome individuals who are passionate about mental health support and increasing access to resources. If you care about these issues, we'd love to have you join us. We support remote and in-person volunteer opportunities.
Visit our Get Involved section to find out ways to learn more, donate, or volunteer.
If I were to donate funds, how is my money used?
We take our responsibility to our community and donors seriously, striving to ensure EmpathyHQ's long-term sustainability. Our funds are used to provide mental health services for clients in need.
What is your organization's privacy policy?
Our organization takes our privacy policy seriously and protects the safety of our supporters. We do not sell or otherwise disclose information about our clients, volunteers or supporters outside of our immediate organization. This policy has no exceptions. We do not sell or exchange your information with any other organizations—public, private or nonprofit. For more detailed information visit our Privacy Policy page.
Do I have to have custody agreement or court order for my child to receive services?
YES. If your child does not live with both biological parents and there is any court order or custody agreement in place, it must be on file. In order for a counselor to see your child, they must have obtained and reviewed the MOST RECENT custody agreement or court order, and any applicable part of a divorce decree that mentions custody. When federal or state statutes provide an exemption to secure consent of a parent or guardian prior to providing services to a minor, the counselor must follow the protocol set forth in such federal or state statutes. If documentation is not provided, your child cannot be seen by a counselor.
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