How do you create a meaningful Thanksgiving? Do you compare your way of celebrating to pictures in magazines or to the portrayals of happy families on TV? Are your expectations set by your neighbors, friends or family? Dr. Robin says each of us can experience a meaningful Thanksgiving on our own terms, not someone else's.

If you're searching for meaning this Thanksgiving, try to pick one thing that's really working in your life—one thing for which you are truly grateful—and let that define this special holiday. Perhaps you are grateful for your sound physical health. Maybe you want to celebrate the genuine connection you have with your spouse and children. Or, maybe you want to thank the circle of friends who give you support and love.

"This is your opportunity, on Thanksgiving Day, to figure out what is it that you're thankful for—not to focus on all that isn't," Dr. Robin says. "This one day, let it be the springboard, let it be the building block for you to decide, 'You know? There are some things in my life that I am profoundly thankful for.'"