Positioning Gratitude As A Well-Being “Savior” During Covid-19: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

The first case of covid-19 was confirmed in December 2019, and the world has been altered immeasurably ever since. While this virus certainly impacted physical well-being, its highly contagious nature created a state of alarm globally and negatively impacted mental well-being as well. The lockdown made things further complicated by physically isolating people and disrupting their daily lives in an unforeseen manner. The new normal led to the shifting of social, economic and political life to online platforms.

Research has time and again suggested that gratitude interventions designed to increase appreciation of positive qualities, situations, and people in one’s life can improve psychological well-being among people going through difficult times. In the given backdrop, this study looks at the role of Gratitude in bringing salvation to mental well-being in the times of Covid-19. This study was conducted during India's first pandemic wave, which lasted from February 2020 to January 2021. It is qualitative in nature as it wanted to capture the in-depth lived experiences of people practising Gratitude during Covid-19 times. The study divulges how the practice of Gratitude helped people cope with the trauma and anxiety caused during the times of Covid-19 and how it can be an effective instrument in times of crisis.