2024-01-04 11:13:37
Lingering thoughts can be upsetting, but they can also be a sign of something more serious. According to Dr. Stephanie Collier, a psychiatrist at Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital, stuck thoughts are not just simply annoying, but they can interfere with your daily life and cause distress.
Dr. Collier explains that there are various underlying conditions that can cause lingering thoughts. Generalized anxiety disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are some of the common culprits. These conditions can lead to intrusive and repetitive thoughts that can be difficult to shake off.
Stuck thoughts can have harmful effects, such as difficulty concentrating, feelings of shame and fear, and a decrease in self-confidence, leading to social isolation. Dr. Collier advises against trying to push the thoughts away, as this can make them stick even tighter. Instead, she suggests different methods to address them, such as examining evidence, distracting yourself, scheduling more activities, reducing worry times, and talking to family or friends.
It’s important to seek help if you’re struggling with lingering thoughts, especially if they persist for a few weeks. Consulting with a primary care doctor or a therapist can provide a proper evaluation and potentially lead to cognitive behavioral therapy or other targeted therapies.
“With time and practice, you can learn to live with and overcome stuck thoughts,” says Dr. Collier. The key is not to give up and to seek the help you need.]
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