Ruminating

[wheresmyhairytoe]

Does anyone have any tips for rumination?

I get stuck in a train of negative thoughts and can't help but fixate on them. Could really use some techniques on stopping them.

I’m exactly the same.
It’s like a well trodden mental path that is really hard to re-wire.
I just repeatedly say in my head “I’m not perfect, why should I expect x RJ be?”
“This will pass”
I take myself away from everyone to limit damage.

Mine is a bit like ocd, just looping thoughts, I think it’s a type of anxiety. When I went to the drs for bad pmt, they told me I had PMDD and gave me setraline and it really helped.

I’m diagnosed with GAD ( now medicated and had counseling so much improved) and the best way for me to break a negative thought pattern is to do something physically tiring. Even just a brisk walk - if you’re by yourself, listen to an audiobook or something that requires a little concentration. Don’t plod along thinking, you need another distraction.

Really tiring exercise is even better. I enjoy long-distance swimming and I simply don’t have the energy for instructive thoughts by lap 30.😂
Obviously some sports aren’t possible if you’re in lockdown, but do whatever you can to get up and moving.

Other simple things that work for me is doing a task that shows instant results- like cleaning the bathroom! Having a nice chat ( not texting) with a good friend who I can have a laugh with, not someone who’s abit moany.
I hope you feel better.💐

I love that last post ☺️
I just cleaned the bathroom today because DSD was really irritating me (my usual trigger)
It’s never been so clean! It also led to me hoovering a d tidying the whole house!

@Thereluctantstepmother. Could you pop over to the US and give my house a good clean as well, please?🤣 My teens are supposed to be helping out with chores but seem strangely reluctant, as per usual.😂

Getting out into nature helps me too, definitely with podcast/friend to listen to. Not to sound woo but there is something super healing and soothing about the woods

Thank you all. I do go out for a walk but need a plan for the evenings and night times.

I'm actually doing my own head in now with it all. It all centres round work, I'm off sick at the moment so got lots of time to just sit and think. I'm hoping once I'm back it'll ease a bit.

I find doing certain repetitive activities help, ones which keep the hands busy and engage the brain but without being too taxing.

Specifically for me: large jigsaw puzzles and colouring in. My mind kind of switches off, or at least switches into a different place. Anxiety levels drop, I'm calmer, the cycle of thoughts has been broken.

I also go for runs, but colouring in is easier to pick up 😉