Why Anxiety is a Blessing

The past year has been filled with anxiety for Jews around the globe. From horrific acts of antisemitic violence in Israel to rising tensions and conflicts on University campuses, we face an unsettling reality. Amidst this hardship, there’s a way to view anxiety not just as a burden but as a source of strength and resilience.

Back in 2020, at the start of the pandemic, I panicked. I’m a clinical psychologist, and every time I glanced at my phone, I’d feel a tightening in my chest. My clinic, Center for Anxiety, was moving 500 patients to telehealth in just two weeks, and as much as I worried for my family and myself, I was especially concerned for my patients with existing anxiety. How would they cope?

To my surprise, they fared better than expected. In fact, our research showed that patients who came in for treatment before the pandemic didn’t see an increase of anxiety during it. Why?

Instead of getting rid of their anxiety, they’d already turned it into a blessing.

(I am referring to non-clinical anxiety. Clinical anxiety that interferes with one’s life requires treatment and professional help.)

This experience sparked a revelation that transformed my approach. Rather than avoiding anxiety, we need to embrace it as an essential aspect of life. When channeled with the right perspectives and skills, anxiety can lead to profound personal growth and help us weather life’s storms with greater resilience.

Anxiety is uncomfortable and often intense, but it’s a crucial signal. It’s our body’s way of telling us that something meaningful is at stake, something worth our attention. Instead of dismissing or medicating it away, we can view it as an opportunity—a chance to tune in to what truly matters.

Some of the world’s greatest figures have faced moments of deep anxiety. Sir Winston Churchill froze for three full minutes during a House of Commons speech early in his career. Oprah Winfrey used food to suppress emotions after a career setback, and Taylor Swift, during her first big performance, felt paralyzed with stage fright. Yet, each of these individuals embraced their discomfort and used it as fuel to reach their potential.

The Jewish tradition has plenty of examples as well. In the Book of Samuel, Hannah cried with such intense emotion over being barren that Eli the prophet thought she was drunk. King David expressed his pain through psalms: “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?” Even Moses experienced despair, praying for his own death at times!

These leaders didn’t reject their anxiety; they channeled it, letting it shape their paths and strengthen their faith. Anxiety can deepen our resilience, strengthening our ability to persevere and adapt.

Today, our society views anxiety as a disease. It’s the most common mental health condition worldwide, affecting nearly 40% of Americans at some point. For teenagers, the rates are even higher. We live in a time where seeking an anxiety-free life has become a cultural obsession.

Ironically, this pursuit is fueling the rise in anxiety itself. By expecting a smooth, controlled life, we’re ill-prepared for the inevitable discomforts and uncertainties we encounter. We forget that anxiety, while unpleasant, also can serve a protective and constructive role.

If we want to truly thrive, we need to rethink anxiety—not as a curse to avoid but as a challenge to embrace. Here are four ways to transform it into an ally:

1. Identify the Root

Anxiety signals that something valuable to us feels at risk. Instead of suppressing those feelings, take a moment to Ask yourself: “What am I truly afraid might happen?” This will make you more self-aware, rather than letting your feelings linger and go unexamined.

2. Share Your Feelings

It’s hard to reap the benefits of anxiety when you are alone. Share your worries with someone you trust. This aligns with the Torah teaching, “If a worry is in your heart, let it be expressed.” Speaking your anxieties aloud can relieve their weight, and support from others can help you gain perspective.

3. Embrace, Don’t Avoid

Avoiding anxiety only reinforces it. When you feel anxious, try leaning into the feeling. Let yourself experience it fully without judgment. This practice builds resilience, helping you become stronger with each challenge you face.

4. Let Go of Control

Ultimately, much of our anxiety stems from wanting control over uncontrollable aspects of life. By acknowledging this, we can learn to let go. Anxiety is your body’s way of reminding you to be humble and recognize that you don’t have all the answers. This shift not only relieves anxiety but also brings a greater sense of inner peace and connection to God.

Anxiety, though uncomfortable, can strengthen our relationships, deepen our spiritual connection, and help us build resilience. When we let go of the desire to be in control, we gain the freedom to live with openness and trust.

Instead of seeking a life without anxiety, let’s see it for what it is: a blessing. It’s a reminder of our values, our vulnerabilities, and our capacity for growth. With this perspective, anxiety doesn’t just become manageable—it becomes a powerful force that can help us live a life of purpose and connection.

Listen to my Tedx Talk on this subject: