The article explores the phenomenon of rumination, where individuals replay distressing conversations or moments in an attempt to find clarity and peace. Instead of alleviating anxiety, this behavior often leads to increased mental distress, exhaustion, and a cycle of negative thoughts that can further entrap an individual. It highlights that rumination is a misguided effort to avoid pain, revealing how compulsively revisiting unsettling moments can hinder emotional processing and worsen overall mental health.
Rumination is an effort to avoid pain and discomfort. It's that simple. Which is ironic, given how much distress it tends to create. I've never worked with a client who experienced a breakthrough after two hours of spiraling in the middle of the night. What they do experience is frustration, headaches, poor sleep, and a deep sense of exhaustion.
Sometimes rumination starts after an interaction that felt off. You replay the conversation, analyzing tone or body language, hoping to feel better. But underneath it, you're trying to avoid the possibility that it hurt.
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