Thankabout is intentionally simple. The practice behind it is not new, and it is not a trend.
Gratitude journaling has been studied for decades across psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science. While no single practice is a cure-all, a consistent body of research suggests that regularly reflecting on gratitude can support emotional well-being, perspective, and resilience.
Below is a curated list of credible, non-sensational sources we trust. These studies and articles informed how we think about gratitude, habit formation, and reflection.
Across multiple studies and institutions, gratitude practices have been associated with:
Importantly, most researchers emphasize that gratitude works best as a light, consistent practice—not as forced positivity or denial of difficulty. That principle is central to how Thankabout is designed.
Key focus: Gratitude and mental well-being
Harvard Health has published multiple accessible summaries explaining how gratitude practices can influence mood, stress, and overall outlook.
Key findings, in plain language:
Key focus: Evidence-based well-being practices
The Greater Good Science Center is one of the most widely cited institutions studying gratitude, compassion, and emotional health. Their work bridges academic research and real-world application.
Key findings, in plain language:
The "three things" structure directly informed the daily rhythm behind the app.
Key focus: Psychological research summaries and practitioner insights
The APA has published multiple reviews and articles on gratitude as a psychological construct.
Key findings, in plain language:
APA content helps frame gratitude as a psychological skill rather than a spiritual or motivational concept.
Key focus: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Several peer-reviewed reviews have examined gratitude interventions across different populations.
Key findings, in plain language:
These studies emphasize that gratitude works as a supportive practice, not a standalone solution for mental health challenges.
We take three principles from the research:
Writing a few genuine lines regularly is more effective than occasional long reflections.
A gratitude practice should allow space for hard days. It should not demand optimism.
Simple prompts, gentle reminders, and low friction increase long-term use.
These principles shape how Thankabout works: short entries, optional prompts, and no pressure to perform.
Gratitude can support emotional well-being, perspective, and resilience. It is not a replacement for professional mental health care.
If you are experiencing persistent distress, anxiety, or depression, we encourage seeking support from qualified mental health professionals.