Have you ever noticed how one small negative thought can take over your whole day?
Our brains are incredibly powerful. They can lift us up with possibility. But, they can also pull us down with fear and self-doubt. In my years as a psychiatrist – and in my own personal struggle with depression and anxiety – I’ve seen this happen again and again.
The way we think shapes how we feel. Over time, it shapes how we live.
Negative thoughts don’t just make us feel bad. They affect how we act, how we treat ourselves, even how our bodies function. If we’re not paying attention, those thoughts can start to feel like truth.
But… thoughts aren’t facts. They’re patterns. And patterns can be changed.
🔸 3 Ways to Take Back Control of Negative Thoughts 🔸
✅ Name the Thought
When a negative thought shows up (like, “I’m not good enough.”), pause. Label it. Saying “I’m having the thought that I’m not good enough” creates just enough space. It gives you distance. That space lets you choose how to respond, instead of just reacting.
✅ Ask Better Questions
Challenge the thought. Is it 100% true? What would I say to a friend who believed this? Sometimes, the goal isn’t to “be positive.” It’s to be fair and realistic with yourself.
✅ Talk to Someone Trained to Help
A good therapist can help you spot patterns and teach you how to shift them. You don’t need to wait until you’re overwhelmed. Getting support early can build skills that last a lifetime.
“The mind is everything. What you think, you become.” – Buddha
You won’t stop every negative thought.
But you can train your mind to treat them differently.
And that can make all the difference in the world.
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.
