Anxiety is one of the greatest burdens many people silently carry. It can weigh heavily on the mind, cloud the heart, and drain the spirit of peace. In the Catholic faith, prayer is a source of strength, calmness, and restoration. Through prayer, believers hand over their worries to God, trust in His timing, and invite the Holy Spirit to give comfort. These Catholic Prayers are written to help anyone experiencing fear, worry, stress, or uncertainty find divine peace.
Each prayer is drawn from Scripture and Catholic tradition, allowing the anxious heart to rest in God’s promises. As you read through these, remember that prayer is not only words but an act of trust. When spoken with faith, these prayers become a lifeline connecting the troubled soul to Christ, who is our peace.
The title Catholic Prayers For Anxiety serves as a reminder that the Church offers not only words but also hope through the Sacraments, the intercession of the saints, and God’s unfailing presence. Use these prayers daily, whether in the morning before you begin your day, at night before you rest, or whenever anxiety begins to overwhelm you.
Powerful Catholic Prayers For Anxiety With Scriptures
1. Prayer for Trust in God
When anxiety grips the heart, trust becomes the anchor that holds us steady.
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
Lord, I surrender my worries to You. My anxious heart often wanders into fear, but I know You care for me more than I can ever understand. Teach me to trust You completely. Calm the storm within me and let me rest in the assurance that You are in control. Amen.
2. Prayer for Calmness of Heart
A restless heart needs the peace of Christ to silence its racing thoughts.
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27
Jesus, Prince of Peace, enter into my heart that trembles with unease. Let Your words quiet my soul and bring serenity to my thoughts. May the peace You promised flow into me and remove all fear. Amen.
3. Prayer for Strength in Fear
Fear magnifies anxiety, but God’s strength brings courage.
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?” – Psalm 27:1
Heavenly Father, I confess that fear has often taken hold of me. Yet You are my light and salvation. Strengthen me to rise above my fears, and help me to remember that with You, I am never alone. Amen.
4. Prayer for Letting Go of Control
Anxiety often comes from trying to control what is beyond us.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
Lord, I release the burdens that I cannot carry. Too often I cling to my own understanding, but it only deepens my anxiety. Teach me to trust You fully and let go of the things I cannot control. Amen.
5. Prayer for Hope in Uncertainty
Anxious thoughts about the future can steal today’s peace.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Gracious God, I place my uncertain future in Your hands. May Your promises lift the weight of anxiety from me. Fill my heart with hope and remind me that You are guiding my steps with love. Amen.
6. Prayer for Night Anxiety
Sleepless nights often magnify worry and fear.
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.” – Psalm 4:8
Lord, as I lay down my head tonight, I give You all my racing thoughts and restless fears. Cover me with Your presence so I may rest without worry. Grant me peaceful sleep and a calm mind. Amen.
Prayer to St. Dymphna, Patroness of Anxiety
St. Dymphna is the Catholic patron saint of anxiety, depression, and nervous disorders.
Saint Dymphna, faithful servant of Christ, you know the heavy burden of anxiety. I ask for your intercession before the throne of God. Pray that I may receive peace in my heart, healing in my mind, and strength to endure each day. Amen.
7. Prayer for Patience in Waiting
Waiting often increases anxious thoughts.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” – Psalm 37:7
Lord, waiting is hard for me. My heart grows restless, and anxiety fills my thoughts. Teach me patience, and help me trust that Your timing is perfect. Calm my anxious spirit as I wait for Your answers. Amen.
8. Prayer for Courage in Daily Life
Anxiety can paralyze us from moving forward.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9
Father, You command me to be strong and courageous. Yet anxiety often weakens me. Remind me daily that You are with me, guiding my steps, and I need not be afraid. Amen.
9. Prayer for Inner Stillness
Stillness in God’s presence silences the noise of anxiety.
“Be still, and know that I am God.” – Psalm 46:10
O Lord, my mind is restless and my heart troubled. Grant me the grace to be still before You. Remind me that You are God, sovereign over my life, and nothing can separate me from Your love. Amen.
10. Prayer for Protection from Worry
Worry is one of the strongest roots of anxiety. It can keep the mind racing, the body restless, and the spirit uneasy. God does not call us to live in constant worry but in faith and surrender.
“Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life?” – Luke 12:25
Lord Jesus, I often allow worry to consume me. My thoughts race ahead of me, painting pictures of fear and failure. Yet You remind me that worry cannot add even a moment to my life. Instead of worrying, teach me to trust. Guard my heart and mind from the constant noise of anxiety. Help me breathe deeply in Your presence and remember that You hold my life in Your hands. Amen.
SEE ALSO: 20+ Powerful Catholic Prayers For Stress and Anxiety with Scriptures
11. Prayer for Deliverance from Panic Attacks
Panic can strike suddenly, leaving the body trembling and the mind overwhelmed. In those moments, only God can bring true calm.
“When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” – Psalm 94:19
Father, when fear rushes in and panic grips me, I feel powerless. My heart races, my body weakens, and my mind loses peace. Yet even in these moments, Your Word says that Your consolation brings comfort. Lord, deliver me from the grip of panic. Replace the terror with trust, the trembling with courage, and the fear with the assurance of Your love. Stay close to me in these moments and never let me forget that You are my refuge. Amen.
12. Prayer for Peaceful Breathing
When anxiety floods the body, even breathing feels difficult. Through prayer, breathing can become a sacred act of releasing fear and receiving God’s peace.
“The Spirit of God has made me; the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” – Job 33:4
13. Prayer for Anxiety about the Future
Uncertainty about what lies ahead often fuels anxious thoughts. But the Lord holds every tomorrow in His hands.
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” – Matthew 6:34
Heavenly Father, my heart grows restless when I think of the future. Questions rise within me — What if I fail? What if things do not turn out well? Yet You remind me not to worry about tomorrow. Lord, help me to stay in today, to embrace the blessings You give now, and to trust that You will take care of the future. Calm my anxious thoughts and remind me that You have already gone before me. Amen.
14. Prayer for Anxiety at Work
Workplace stress can weigh heavily, causing sleepless nights, exhaustion, and a heart full of anxiety. Prayer allows us to hand over every burden.
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3
Lord, I bring before You the anxiety I feel about my work. The pressure, the deadlines, and the fear of failure overwhelm me at times. But You remind me to commit my work to You, and You will establish my steps. Lord, guide me in my responsibilities. Help me to do my work faithfully and with peace in my heart. Remove the burden of perfection and give me joy in serving through my labor. Amen.
15. Prayer for Anxiety in Relationships
Relationships are often sources of stress, fear, or misunderstanding. God’s love can restore peace where anxiety seeks to divide.
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8
Lord Jesus, my heart grows anxious when relationships become strained. Fear of rejection, arguments, and broken trust fill me with unease. Yet You call me to love deeply, for love heals wounds. Calm my anxieties about those I love. Teach me patience, humility, and forgiveness. Fill me with Your peace so I can reflect Your love to others, even in difficult moments. Amen.
16. Prayer for Students with Anxiety
For students, anxiety can rise with exams, pressure to succeed, or fear of the future. God provides wisdom and peace in every season of study.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” – Proverbs 9:10
Lord of wisdom, I pray for students who battle anxiety in their studies. The burden of expectations, the weight of exams, and the uncertainty of the future often feel too heavy. Grant them peace of mind and clarity of thought. Replace fear with confidence, and doubt with faith. Remind them that true wisdom comes from You, and in Your guidance, they will not be lost. Amen.
17. Prayer for Parents with Anxiety
Parents often worry over their children, carrying heavy concerns for their safety, future, and well-being. God invites parents to entrust their children into His care.
“All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children.” – Isaiah 54:13
18. Prayer for Anxiety about Health
Health concerns, whether our own or of loved ones, can stir deep fear and anxiety. But God is the healer of body and soul.
“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” – Psalm 147:3
Merciful Lord, my health concerns fill me with anxiety. I worry about what the doctors may say, about the future, and about the strength of my body. Yet You are the Divine Physician, who heals the brokenhearted and binds every wound. Lord, I place my body and soul in Your hands. If it is Your will, grant me healing and health. But above all, grant me peace, trust, and strength to endure with faith. Amen.
19. Prayer for Anxiety Before Sleep
Nighttime is when anxiety often grows strongest, as silence magnifies worry. But God gives rest to His beloved.
“When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.” – Proverbs 3:24
Lord, as I prepare for sleep, my thoughts run wild. Every worry seems louder in the silence of the night. Yet You promise that my sleep can be sweet and free of fear. Calm my racing mind and protect me through the night. Cover me with Your peace, so I may wake restored and renewed in Your presence. Amen.
20. Prayer for Anxiety During Travel
Travel can stir up fear and worry, whether from leaving home, facing the unknown, or being on the road. God is always with us wherever we go.
“The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” – Psalm 121:8
Lord, anxiety grips me as I travel. Whether by road, air, or sea, I feel uncertain and afraid of what could happen. Yet Your Word assures me that You watch over my coming and going forever. Be with me in every step, every mile, and every moment. Calm my heart and grant me peace as I journey under Your protection. Amen.
21. Prayer for Anxiety in Financial Struggles
Money worries are one of the heaviest burdens, often keeping hearts restless and minds anxious. But God promises to provide for His children.
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Lord, financial worries weigh heavily on me. I fear lack, I fear failure, and I fear what tomorrow holds. But You promise to supply all my needs according to the riches of Christ. Lord, teach me to trust in Your provision. Help me to be wise with what I have, and remind me that I am never abandoned. Fill my anxious heart with peace, knowing that You are my provider. Amen.
22. Prayer for Anxiety in Loneliness
Loneliness magnifies anxious thoughts because the mind begins to believe it has been abandoned. Yet, God has promised never to leave His children alone.
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” – Deuteronomy 31:8
23. Prayer for Anxiety in Decision-Making
Uncertainty about choices can leave us restless and anxious, afraid of making the wrong step. But God offers wisdom generously when we ask.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Lord, when decisions weigh heavily upon me, my heart fills with fear. I worry about failing, about choosing wrongly, and about disappointing others. But You are the source of wisdom and guidance. Grant me clarity of mind and a calm heart as I make decisions. Remove the anxiety that clouds my judgment and fill me with Your Spirit so I may choose the path that honors You. Amen.
24. Prayer for Anxiety in Waiting for Results
Whether medical results, exams, or outcomes of any kind, waiting creates tension and fear. God teaches us to rest in Him while we wait.
“I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope.” – Psalm 130:5
Lord, the waiting feels unbearable, and my anxiety rises as I imagine every possible outcome. Yet Your Word says my hope should be in You. Teach me to rest in Your promises instead of worrying about what I cannot control. Help me to trust that whatever the result, You are with me. May my anxious heart find calmness in the assurance of Your love and plan. Amen.
25. Prayer for Anxiety Before Public Speaking
Speaking before others can stir deep fear and anxiety. God promises to give His children words and courage when they need it most.
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” – John 14:26
Lord, when I stand before others, my heart trembles and my thoughts scatter in fear. Anxiety whispers that I will fail. But You remind me that the Holy Spirit will guide my words. Grant me courage and calmness. Help me to focus on the purpose, not the fear. May my words bring glory to You, and may peace fill me as I speak. Amen.
26. Prayer for Anxiety Over Children’s Future
Parents often worry about the direction of their children’s lives. Only God can truly guide their steps and grant peace to anxious hearts.
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
Heavenly Father, as I think of my children’s future, my heart fills with worry. I long to protect them and guide them, but I know their paths are in Your hands. Teach me to raise them in faith and to trust that You will never forsake them. Remove my anxious thoughts about what lies ahead for them, and instead, grant me peace in Your promise. Amen.
27. Prayer for Anxiety in Times of Change
Change can bring fear because it feels unfamiliar and uncertain. Yet God remains constant even when everything shifts.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” – Hebrews 13:8
28. Prayer for Anxiety About Loved Ones’ Safety
We cannot always be with those we love, and worry about their safety can consume us. But God is their protector.
“The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life.” – Psalm 121:7
Lord, my mind is restless with worry about my loved ones. I fear for their safety when they are far from me. But You are their protector and guardian, watching over them at all times. Calm my anxious heart and help me to release them into Your care. Cover them with Your protection, and grant me peace in knowing they are safe in You. Amen.
29. Prayer for Anxiety in Unanswered Prayers
When prayers seem unheard, anxiety whispers that God has forgotten us. But His timing is perfect.
“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” – Jeremiah 29:12
Lord, I feel anxious when my prayers go unanswered. I begin to fear You are not listening. Yet Your Word promises that You hear me when I call. Help me to trust in Your timing, even when it feels slow. Calm my restless spirit and remind me that Your silence is not absence. May I wait with faith and peace in Your promises. Amen.
30. Prayer for Anxiety in Overthinking
Overthinking magnifies anxiety, turning small concerns into overwhelming fears. God calls us to rest our minds in His truth.
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Lord, my mind races with thoughts that spiral out of control. I replay situations, imagine failures, and create fears that steal my peace. Yet You promise perfect peace to those whose minds remain steadfast in You. Quiet my restless thoughts, Lord. Help me focus on Your truth rather than my fears. Fill me with Your calmness and set my mind free from anxiety. Amen.
31. Prayer for Anxiety During Illness of a Loved One
Watching a loved one suffer from illness can be more painful than bearing our own. Anxiety grows strong in these moments, but God’s presence remains close.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” – Psalm 34:18
Lord, my heart aches as I watch my loved one suffer in sickness. Anxiety fills me with fear for their health and future. Yet You are close to the brokenhearted. Stay near to me and to the one I love. Comfort us in this trial. Grant healing, if it is Your will, but above all, grant us peace and trust in Your care. Amen.
32. Prayer for Anxiety in Times of Persecution or Criticism
Fear of others’ opinions or criticism can weigh heavily. God calls us to stand firm, knowing His approval matters most.
“If God is for us, who can be against us?” – Romans 8:31
33. Prayer for Anxiety in Seasons of Waiting for Love
Many grow anxious in waiting for love or fearing loneliness. But God’s timing is always best.
“Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
Lord, as I wait for love, anxiety fills me with doubt. I fear being alone, I fear not being enough, and I fear missing out on happiness. Yet You promise that when I delight in You, my heart’s desires will be fulfilled. Teach me to find my peace in You first. Help me to trust in Your timing for relationships and to know that I am fully loved by You. Amen.
34. Prayer for Anxiety in Spiritual Doubts
When faith feels shaken, anxiety can take root. God welcomes our doubts and calls us to seek Him.
“Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, ‘I believe; help my unbelief!’” – Mark 9:24
Lord, sometimes my doubts stir anxiety within me. I question my faith, and I fear I am not strong enough. But even the man in Scripture cried out for help in his unbelief, and You answered him. Meet me in my weakness, Lord. Calm my anxious spirit and strengthen my faith. Let me know that You hold me even when I falter. Amen.
35. Prayer for Anxiety About the World’s Troubles
News of wars, disasters, and injustice can cause deep anxiety. But God remains sovereign over the world.
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33
Lord, my heart is heavy as I see the troubles of the world. Fear and anxiety rise as I think of wars, disasters, and suffering. Yet You promised that though the world has troubles, You have overcome them. Calm my anxious heart, Lord. Help me to trust that You are in control and that Your victory is sure. Let me live with peace, even in a troubled world. Amen.
36. Prayer for Anxiety About Death
Fear of death is one of the deepest roots of anxiety, yet Christ conquered death to give us eternal life.
“I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” – John 11:25
Lord, the thought of death fills me with fear and anxiety. I fear the unknown, I fear pain, and I fear leaving my loved ones. But You remind me that You are the resurrection and the life. In You, death is not the end. Calm my anxious thoughts and give me hope in eternal life with You. Replace fear with faith, and let peace guard my heart. Amen.
37. Prayer for Anxiety About Failing God
Many feel anxious that they will fail in their walk with God. But His mercy is greater than our weakness.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9
38. Prayer for Anxiety in Overload of Responsibilities
Too many tasks and responsibilities can weigh the spirit down, causing anxiety. God invites us to rest in Him.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Lord, my responsibilities overwhelm me. My schedule is full, my mind is restless, and anxiety grips me as I try to carry it all. Yet You invite me to come to You for rest. I lay down my burdens before You. Teach me to rely on Your strength instead of my own. Calm my anxious heart and give me peace as I walk through each day. Amen.
39. Prayer for Anxiety in the Unknown
The unknown often stirs deep fear, because we cannot predict or control it. But God knows the end from the beginning.
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.” – 2 Corinthians 5:7
Lord, I fear the unknown. The path ahead is unclear, and anxiety fills my heart as I wonder what lies ahead. Yet You call me to walk by faith, not by sight. Teach me to trust that You hold the future. Calm my fears and help me rest in the assurance that wherever I go, You are already there. Amen.
40. Prayer for Anxiety and Desire for Peace
Ultimately, every anxious soul longs for peace. True peace comes only from Christ.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7
Lord, I bring every anxious thought, every restless worry, and every fear before You. Your Word promises peace beyond understanding for those who trust in You. Guard my heart and mind with that peace, Lord. Let it be my shield against anxiety. May I live each day not in fear, but in calm confidence, knowing You are with me. Amen.
Conclusion
Anxiety is one of the most silent battles many souls endure. It creeps into the mind, steals rest from the body, and unsettles the spirit. It can make even the simplest tasks feel impossible, and it often tries to convince us that we are alone in our suffering. But the truth revealed through Scripture, the Sacraments, and the prayers of the Church is that no one who places their trust in God is ever truly alone.
These prayers are not just words on a page but spiritual lifelines meant to guide the heart back to Christ, who is the Prince of Peace. Each prayer, rooted in Scripture and Catholic devotion, reminds us that God is near to the brokenhearted, faithful to His children, and always present in the storms of life. Just as the disciples called out to Jesus in the boat when the winds raged and the waves threatened to sink them, so too can we call upon Him when anxiety rises within us. And just as He spoke to the storm and commanded it to be still, He can also speak peace into our hearts.
The Church, in her wisdom, also reminds us that prayer is a journey, not a one-time act. These prayers for anxiety are to be repeated often — in the morning as we prepare for the unknown day ahead, during stressful hours when burdens feel heavy, at night when silence amplifies our fears, and in moments when the heart feels restless. Prayer does not always remove the storm, but it always anchors the soul in God’s presence.
It is also important to remember the power of the Sacraments in battling anxiety. The Eucharist fills us with the presence of Christ, who is our peace. Confession heals us of guilt and restores us to God’s mercy. Anointing of the Sick brings strength in times of physical and mental suffering. And in every Rosary prayed, we are reminded of Our Lady’s tender care, especially through the intercession of St. Dymphna, the patroness of those who suffer from anxiety and mental struggles.
Every anxious thought is an invitation to turn again toward God. Every restless night is an opportunity to whisper a prayer of surrender. Every trembling heart is a heart that God longs to fill with His calmness. Anxiety does not define us — God’s love does. His peace is greater than any fear, His mercy deeper than any worry, and His presence stronger than any anxious thought.
So as you continue your journey, let these 40 Catholic Prayers For Anxiety remain close to you. Whisper them when fear arises. Reflect on the Scriptures within them. Place your trust not in your own strength, but in the One who created you, redeemed you, and sustains you. Remember that the peace of God is not the absence of problems, but the presence of Christ within the soul.
May these prayers become a shield for your heart, a balm for your mind, and a reminder that God’s love is always greater than anxiety. May you find rest in His promises, courage in His presence, and peace that surpasses all understanding in Christ Jesus our Lord.
