The Comfort Crisis, Anxiety, and Why Ants Might Be Onto Something

Ever watch ants carry crumbs twice their size? Or build a bridge of bodies just to reach a goal? They don’t overthink it. Don’t quit halfway. They just do the work—together.It is the Comfort Crisis and Anxiety phenom

It’s wild to think these tiny creatures, with no concept of comfort, accomplish so much. Meanwhile, we’ve built a world that practically runs itself—and yet, we’re more anxious, scattered, and burned out than ever. e. 

Living in a Comfort Crisis

There’s a name for what we’re going through: the Comfort Crisis. Coined by author Michael Easter, the term refers to how modern life has eliminated nearly all forms of healthy stress—leaving us mentally and physically fragile.

It’s not just a theory. Stats back it up. From 2008 to 2018, anxiety in U.S. adults jumped from 5.1% to nearly 6.7%, with even sharper increases among young adults. Today’s anxiety epidemic isn’t happening despite comfort—it’s happening because of it.

The Brain Needs Struggle

Neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman offers insight into what’s going on in our heads. He often points to a part of the brain called the anterior mid-cingulate cortex (aMCC), which helps us push through discomfort and stay motivated under stress. In other words, it builds resilience.

But here’s the catch—just like a muscle, the aMCC only gets stronger when it’s used. If life is too easy, this part of the brain goes dormant. No challenge, no activation. No activation, no growth.

Dr. Huberman encourages what he calls “Sucks But Safe” challenges—things like cold exposure, intense physical effort, or tough mental tasks. These light up the aMCC and help us become more mentally tough. No surprise, the comfort crisis and anxiety go hand-in-hand.

What Scripture Already Told Us

What science is now revealing, the Bible told us centuries ago. Pastor Joel recently preached on James 1, and it ties all of this together in such a powerful way:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” — James 1:2–3

 

Let that sit with you for a second. James isn’t saying trials are fun—he’s saying we can face them with joy, knowing that’s where real growth happens.

God doesn’t shield us from hard things because He knows the value in them. Trials strengthen our faith the same way effort strengthens the aMCC. Without challenge, there is no maturity. No depth. No real resilience.

“Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” — James 1:4

 

When we avoid trials, we cheat ourselves of that growth. But when we embrace the struggle—whether it’s a workout, a waiting season, or a spiritual test—we become more complete, more stable, and more grounded.

The Ants Had It Right

Ants don’t avoid discomfort. They push through it. They persevere, no matter how heavy the burden or how complicated the obstacle. And you know what? They thrive that way.

So maybe it’s time we rethink how we’re living. Are we too comfortable? Are we missing out on growth because we avoid what feels hard? Maybe it’s time to:

• Welcome more “Sucks but Safe” moments.
• Choose a challenge over convenience now and then.
• Reframe trials not as punishment—but as God’s training ground.

As James 1:12 reminds us:

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial, because having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life.”

Final Thoughts: Finding Strength in Struggle

The comfort crisis and anxiety go hand in hand because we were made to wrestle with the hard stuff. That’s where growth lives. And maybe—just maybe—that’s where God meets us the most clearly.

So let’s stop avoiding the discomfort. Let’s carry the load, finish the course, and trust that God will meet us in the middle of the struggle—stronger, wiser, and more complete than we were before.

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FAQs: The Comfort Crisis and Anxiety

What is the comfort crisis?

The comfort crisis refers to how modern life eliminates most physical and mental challenges, weakening our resilience and increasing anxiety.

How does technology impact anxiety?

While technology makes life easier, it can reduce our exposure to healthy stress. This lack of challenge may contribute to higher rates of anxiety and depression.

What does James 1 say about trials?

James 1 teaches that trials develop perseverance and maturity. We’re encouraged to consider trials with joy because of the growth they produce in us.