Gratitude and Anxiety

Maybe you have heard, maybe you’ve even rolled your eyes at, the idea of being grateful instead of anxious. Maybe you’ve felt guilty about feeling anxious because of how Bible verses can be used about it.

Let’s take another look.

From a mental health perspective, feelings happen. Worries and fears let us know something needs attention, but anxiety can take up so much attention it begins to be disruptive in our life.

And, gratitude is a Biblical and scientific help for that. It turns out that our brains can’t be fearful and grateful at the same time, so gratitude can literally flip the switch on anxiety. To pause, breathe, and express gratitude is a good tool to have. One we can easily repeat, as needed.

Notice I said “and” not “but.” The aim isn’t to defeat anxiety with gratitude. Gratitude comes alongside and fills out an otherwise too bleak and scary mindset. Name the anxiety. Name the gratitude. Be honest about the challenges and about your blessings.

As you practice that, you just might notice God bringing you peace to face your concerns.