Is It Possible for You to Be Anxious and Grateful at the Same Time?

Practicing Gratitude While Embracing Challenges

Gratitude doesn’t erase challenges—it transforms how we see them. Life’s difficulties aren’t roadblocks; they’re stepping stones. Gratitude shifts our focus from what’s wrong to what we have, even in tough times.

Did you know that gratitude can actually change your body? Research in Frontiers in Psychology (2017) found that practicing gratitude reduces cortisol, a stress hormone, and promotes parasympathetic activation. This activates the “rest and digest” response, calming your nervous system.¹

Here’s a practical tip: write down three challenges you’ve faced recently and the lessons they taught you. As my running back Benjamin Rodrigue often says, “It’s not about the outcome, it’s about the journey.”

Grateful for the Bad Days

Without the bad days, the good ones wouldn’t shine as brightly. For much of 2023, I lived in a constant state of fight or flight: nausea, jitters, sweating, fatigue, tears, and worry were all too familiar.

But I wasn’t fully aware of how dark those days were until I finally felt relaxed again. That moment became a turning point.

One memory stands out: we had just won our last football game of the season, going undefeated at 10-0. Yet, I was too anxious to celebrate with my colleagues and went straight home.

I missed out on the camaraderie—the joy of celebrating victory as a team. Today, I’m grateful to say I’ve reclaimed those moments. I take time to savor each win, no matter the game situation.

Gratitude helped me move forward and turn those “dark days” into motivation. As research from UC Davis shows, practicing gratitude consistently can improve mental health and resilience, even in high-stress environments.²

Why a Support System Matters More Than Anything

Gratitude doesn’t just come from within—it’s often inspired by the people around us. Having a strong support system can make all the difference. Loneliness is dangerous and far different from simply being alone. Connection reduces feelings of isolation and fosters resilience.

Loved ones, friends, and mentors help us see the positives when we can’t find them ourselves. Research shows that expressing gratitude toward others strengthens relationships and reduces loneliness and anxiety.³ A simple “thank you” goes a long way.

Take a moment to identify one or two people you can trust to share your struggles with. You don’t need them to fix anything—just be present, listen, and understand.

Call to Action

Talking about your struggles is the first step to healing. Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s strength. If left unaddressed, anxiety can lead to serious physical health issues over time.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, lean on your community. Reach out to loved ones, colleagues, or a professional. And if you need someone outside your circle, reply to this email—I’m here to listen.

This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to reflect on this: Anxiety and gratitude may coexist, but only one can dominate your life. Choose gratitude. Let it guide you through tough times. Speak up, connect, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey.

References

1. Cregg, D. R., & Cheavens, J. S. (2017). Gratitude interventions: Effective self-help? A meta-analysis of the impact on symptoms of depression and anxiety. Frontiers in Psychology, 8, 868. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00868

2. Emmons, R. A., & McCullough, M. E. (2003). Counting blessings versus burdens: An experimental investigation of gratitude and subjective well-being in daily life. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(2), 377–389. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.84.2.377

3. Wood, A. M., Froh, J. J., & Geraghty, A. W. (2010). Gratitude and well-being: A review and theoretical integration. Clinical Psychology Review, 30(7), 890–905. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2010.03.005

Grant Chiasson Mental Performance
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