Have you ever had one negative thought turn into a full spiral of self-doubt?
I have.
During my own battles with depression, it often felt impossible to stop the flood of negative thinking. One thought would lead to another and suddenly, I was trapped in a loop that only pulled me deeper. It didn’t just affect how I felt. It changed how I saw myself.
Negative thoughts don’t just visit. They linger, take root and start shaping how we view our worth.
But here’s what I’ve learned – both as a psychiatrist and someone who’s lived this firsthand: you can challenge those thoughts. When you do, things really begin to change.
🔸 3 Ways to Push Back on Negative Thoughts 🔸
✅ Name the Thought
When a negative thought shows up, don’t ignore it – name it. “I’m thinking I’m not good enough right now.” That simple act gives you space to see the thought for what it is: a thought, not a fact.
✅ Ask: Is This Helpful or Harmful?
Before you believe every thought you have, pause and ask: Is this thought helping me grow or pulling me down? If it’s not serving you, you don’t have to give it power.
✅ Talk to Yourself Like You Would a Friend
You’d never say the harsh things you think about yourself to someone you love. So try speaking to yourself with the same care and compassion.
“The soul becomes dyed with the color of its thoughts.”
– Marcus Aurelius
To feel better, we have to learn to think differently.
It’s not about ignoring pain – it’s about building thoughts that help us heal.
You’re not stuck.
You’re just beginning to take control of your mind again.
Peter Zafirides, MD
Central Ohio Behavioral Medicine
(Image Credit: GoLimitless)
(For educational purposes only. Not medical advice.)
PSYCHIATRY
COLUMBUS, OHIO
If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression do not take these symptoms lightly. The earlier you get help, the quicker you can find healing, because your symptoms truly can get better. Working with our psychiatrists is a proven path for dealing with such concerns. Contact us to talk about getting you the help you need and deserve.
