Glimmers: Small Sparks of Hope in Mental Health

For many people navigating mental health challenges, healing isn’t always dramatic or sudden. Sometimes, it’s the tiniest things that carry the most weight. These moments are called glimmers, and they are powerful tools for grounding and emotional regulation.

What Are Glimmers?

Glimmers are experiences that signal safety, comfort, or joy. Unlike intense emotions, glimmers are small and often easy to overlook. They could be as simple as the warmth of sunlight, a voice that feels reassuring, or a brief moment of laughter with someone.

The concept of glimmers is especially important for people who have experienced trauma, anxiety, or stress. For these individuals, the brain often prioritizes scanning for danger over noticing comfort. Glimmers offer a tiny but important reminder that not everything in the world is threatening and that moments of safety and joy are possible.

Why Glimmers Matter

Glimmers matter because they help the brain recognize what is safe, positive, and grounding. For someone managing anxiety, depression, or trauma, the brain’s focus often stays on threats or negative experiences. Glimmers interrupt this pattern. Glimmers create brief windows where the mind and body can pause, breathe, and feel a sense of calm or joy.

Even small glimmers have a meaningful impact. Over time, these moments can help the nervous system recalibrate. Glimmers teach the brain to notice comfort and safety and gradually increase the capacity to feel calm and present. They remind people that healing doesn’t always happen in big leaps. Sometimes, it grows quietly, one small moment at a time.

What Glimmers Look Like in Everyday Life

Glimmers can show up in countless ways, and they are often unique to each person. Some common examples include:

• Hearing the comforting tone of a friend or family member’s voice
• Smelling a favorite scent, like coffee, rain, or fresh bread
• A laugh during a conversation or shared joke
• Listening to a song that evokes calm or happy memories
• A soft texture or touch, such as a blanket, stuffed animal, or petting an animal
• Feeling the breeze as you are walking outside

What Can Help You Notice Glimmers

Some helpful strategies to notice glimmers include:

• Pause and observe – When something small feels comforting, allow yourself to notice it fully.
• Keep a journal – Writing down moments of calm, joy, or comfort helps create a record of what works for you. This can be especially useful during difficult days.
• Share them with others – Talk with others about your glimmers. This can strengthen connections and reinforce positivity.
• Create more glimmers intentionally – Surround yourself with sights, sounds, smells, or objects that bring comfort and joy.

How ShareWell Supports Glimmers

At ShareWell, we know that healing happens in small, meaningful moments. Our peer support groups and coaching sessions help members notice glimmers in their daily lives, celebrate them, and share them with others.

Whether it’s a conversation, a shared laugh, or simply being witnessed, glimmers remind you that safety, joy, and calm aren’t out of reach. They help people feel seen, supported, and connected—and that connection is often the spark that makes all the difference.

At ShareWell, we believe that even the tiniest sparks of light can guide the way. Healing doesn’t always have to be grand or dramatic; sometimes, it just needs a glimmer. Join an online support group today.