Rumination

Rumination is a psychological and physiological process that involves repetitively focusing on the symptoms of distress, and on its possible causes and consequences. It is closely related to worry and obsessive thinking. Rumination is more common in people who are pessimistic, neurotic, and who have negative attributional styles.

Overview

Rumination is derived from the Latin word ruminare, which means to chew over again. It is a cognitive process that involves repetitive and passive focus on one's negative emotions. This process can lead to an increase in negative thinking and can exacerbate problems such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and substance abuse.

Causes

The exact cause of rumination is not known, but it is believed to be a maladaptive coping strategy. It is more common in individuals who have a history of mental health issues, particularly depression and anxiety disorders. Other factors that may contribute to rumination include personality traits such as neuroticism, perfectionism, and a tendency to engage in negative thinking.

Effects

Rumination can have a number of negative effects on mental and physical health. It can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also contribute to physical health problems such as insomnia, heart disease, and gastrointestinal problems.

Treatment

Treatment for rumination often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which aims to help individuals recognize and change their patterns of negative thinking. Other treatments may include mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), which combines mindfulness techniques with CBT, and medication.

See also

• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Eating disorders
• Substance abuse