The primary driver of a negative thought pattern will vary greatly depending on the person engaged in the negative thinking, their particular history, their triggers, and their current mental health situation.

What is the main cause of negative thinking? There is no single main cause that we can point to, as negative thinking arises from a complex web of dynamic factors. It is perhaps no wonder we can be so fixated on the negative things around us. Even modern human history is in many ways a tale of violence and terror. Our evolutionary makeup is based on a need to fight and survive. Our culture and media often glorify struggle and conflict. There are many theories as to why human beings sometimes seem so hyper-focused on the negative aspects of existence. Someone experiencing mental health struggles can be led into a depressive spiral of negative thoughts by any number of possible triggers-from unhelpful advice to minor relationship issues-and those negative thoughts can take on a variety of different forms. Yet, the effects of this thinking can be all too real for someone struggling with their mental health.īreaking the cycle of negative thought patterns requires learning how to cope effectively with the feelings and triggers that lead to negative thinking. Negative thought patterns, or cognitive distortions, can manifest as incorrect assumptions, unrealistic self-criticisms, and even the denial of reality itself. Is it Time for a New Primary Care Physician? Take the Quiz.Is the Acute Psychiatric Outpatient Program Right For Me? Take the Quiz.Professional Reps: Book Your Visit to Sage.Is TMS Treatment Right for Me? Take the Quiz.Substance Use Disorder IOP Group Therapy Tracks.

Is It Time for Opioid Detox? Take the Quiz.

Medically Assisted Treatment & Outpatient Detox.

“ The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook” by Matthew McKay, PhD Jeffrey C.

“ The Brain That Changes Itself” by Norman Doidge, MD.

“ The Negative Thoughts Workbook” by David A.

“ The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living: A Guide to ACT” by Russ Harris.

“ Get Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life: The New Acceptance and Commitment Therapy” by Steven C.

“ The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook” by Kristin Neff, PhD, and Chris Germer, PhD.

“ What to Say When You Talk to Yourself” by Shad Helmstetter, PhD.

To continue the inner work, you may find it helpful to read some of these books: Remember: You are not your thoughts, and you don’t have to be owned by your thoughts. Practice these tips a little every day and, over time, you may hear your whole inner dialogue change course.

True transformation comes from consistency. But, like any other habit, the more you practice turning those thoughts around, the easier it may become.

When you’re done, consider hanging some of your positive thoughts in a place where you’ll see them, like a bathroom mirror or a Post-it note on your desk.Įveryone has unhelpful thoughts, some more than others. This feels like a breakdown, but it might be part of a breakthrough. If I didn’t make that mistake, I wouldn’t have known how to grow. I am loved by my friends, my partner, my parents, my pets… I am good enough it’s just that my imposter syndrome is making me feel like I’m not. I can do this, but I might need to step back and take a breather first. Even if someone noticed, I know they’ve made mistakes too. “I made a massive mistake and everyone saw it. That’s something I would tell someone I care about. I’m not the best at it, and I’m not the worst either.

Dark thoughts psychology