Ruminative thoughts explained
What are ruminative thoughts?
To give you a clue, I can say that ruminations are commonly called “overthinking.” These are repetitive thoughts focused on analyzing the same situation again, and again. Unlike general worries, ruminations hamper your daily functioning, can make you lose track of time, and leave you emotionally exhausted.
How to distinguish concerns from ruminations?
Worries make you seek possible solutions while ruminations keep you stuck in the problem.?
For example, you may be worried about sitting for an exam but feel relief once you see the grades. If the grades are worse than you expected, we have another example:
??worrying implies being sad for a few days and then getting back to studying to pass the exam next time;
??ruminating is blaming yourself for a long period of time, calling yourself a loser, and obsessively analyzing your past preparations and failures instead of getting back to studying.
What can cause rumination?
Traumatic events, failed presentations, relationship problems, awaiting the results of medical tests, and many others. The causes vary from person to person. People with low self-esteem, perfectionism, prolonged stress, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders are more prone to ruminating. Also, it can be a symptom of a phobia or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
How to deal with ruminating?
1??Write your concerns down. Once you see the worrying thoughts written on a piece of paper, they become less powerful and frightening. It also helps to offload and relax your mind.
2??Find effective distractions. These can include spending time outdoors, seeing friends, listening to music, exercising, etc.
3??Talk to someone you trust. Sharing your concerns helps you get another perspective. Note that although your loved ones may be always ready to listen to you, it’s better to seek professional support if you don’t feel better with time.