Q: Julie P. writes: "Right now I can't think of a single, solitary thing I'm grateful for! My partner left, and the kids are acting out. My job may be cut. The tax assessment just came in, and I don't know how I'll keep the house. I'm angry, burnt out and resentful. What can I do?"

A: We asked around our office about how we had coped with stress and dejection. How did we keep gratitude in our minds in those times? Our ideas will help you if you're having trouble finding gratitude.

Memories are mood dependent. There are actions you can take to change a down, angry or resentful mood.

1. Write down, every morning or evening, two things for which you are grateful. Watch your list grow.

2. Help someone else or volunteer for your local non-profit.

3. Go into nature.

4. Eat healthy food

5. Watch a video that brings up happy feelings.

6. Exercise.

7. Keep a list of favorite people, sayings, or messages.

Every choice you make will help you lift your mood. Try some of these, and let us know of any others that are effective for you.

Medical issues may contribute to feeling "down." See a doctor about acute depression, or if your mood is affected by decreased daylight, it may be that you have the winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). To find out more about this, click here: SAD.