Practicing gratitude is a powerful tool that can help shift focus away from stress by redirecting attention from anxieties and frustrations to positive aspects of life. This shift in focus helps to recalibrate the brain’s natural tendency to dwell on stressors—a pattern that’s particularly pronounced in individuals dealing with anxiety or OCD. Here’s how gratitude can help with this transformation:
Rewires the Brain for Positivity: Regular gratitude practice activates regions of the brain associated with dopamine and serotonin production—neurotransmitters that help regulate mood. When we focus on things we’re grateful for, the brain releases these “feel-good” chemicals, which can decrease stress and promote a positive outlook.
Disrupts Negative Thought Cycles: Anxiety often feeds on repetitive, negative thoughts. By consciously practicing gratitude, we create a mental “interrupt” to these thought cycles. Instead of allowing our minds to fixate on worries, gratitude forces us to take a break and recognize something positive, breaking the cycle of anxious rumination.
Fosters a Sense of Control and Resilience: Expressing gratitude helps us feel more grounded, creating a sense of control over our internal state. This is especially helpful when external circumstances feel overwhelming or uncertain. It reminds us of the support, resources, and strengths we already have, fostering resilience in times of stress.
Improves Sleep and Overall Well-being: When practiced consistently, gratitude has been shown to improve sleep quality, enhance physical health, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Good sleep and physical well-being, in turn, lower stress levels and contribute to better mental health overall.
Helps Reframe Stressors as Learning Opportunities: With gratitude, stressful situations can be reframed as moments for growth. For example, instead of viewing a challenging situation as a pure stressor, gratitude helps individuals see how it can provide life lessons, skills, or insights. This reframing can lessen the immediate emotional intensity of the stress.
Consider keeping a gratitude journal, practicing daily affirmations, or simply sharing a few things you’re grateful for each day. This can help you experience these healing benefits over time.
Saharah Shrout, MA, LPC-S
Owner, Professional Counselor & Clinical Supervisor
OCD & Anxiety Treatment of Houston (OATH Therapy)