rumiación

Rumination refers to the repetitive and passive focus on distressing thoughts, feelings, or problems. It is a cognitive process characterized by dwelling on negative aspects of a situation, often without actively seeking solutions. Individuals who ruminate tend to replay past events, worry excessively about the future, or become preoccupied with their own negative emotions and symptoms. This can manifest as self-critical thoughts, a sense of helplessness, and a general feeling of being stuck.

While rumination can sometimes feel like a form of problem-solving, it is generally unproductive. Instead of leading to solutions, it often exacerbates negative emotional states such as sadness, anxiety, and frustration. Research suggests that rumination is a significant risk factor and maintaining factor for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It can also interfere with cognitive functions like decision-making and attention.

Strategies to manage rumination often involve techniques that shift focus away from negative thoughts and encourage more adaptive coping mechanisms. These can include mindfulness exercises, cognitive restructuring to challenge negative thought patterns, engaging in distracting activities, and problem-solving skills training. The goal is to interrupt the cycle of repetitive negative thinking and promote a more balanced and constructive approach to difficulties.