This study investigated the relationship between trait gratitude and mental health among Chinese college students, with a specific focus on the potential mediating mechanisms of the Tangping (lying flat) tendency and positive self-esteem. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 828 undergraduate students in China, utilizing the Gratitude Questionnaire (GQ-6), the Tangping Questionnaire, the Positive Self-Esteem subscale of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and the General Health Questionnair