Gratitude List

Relapse Prevention Tools

A gratitude list is a tool which many people in recovery find helpful. When we feel fearful, in pain, bored, irritable or angry we can take time out to make a list of the people, places or things that are good in our lives and that we are grateful for.

The sorts of things people can write in their gratitude list include the simple and elemental aspects of life that can be treasured, especially in early recovery.  For example, having enough food, getting to bed at night sober and clean in a comfortable bed, the sun, the air and the human kindness you encounter.

A gratitude list can be difficult to write when we are feeling lonely, low or distressed but focussing on the basic and fundamental things that are ok can shift our attention from uncomfortable, self-damaging or painful thoughts to more positive, self-loving ones.