rumination

Rumination is the cognitive process of repeatedly thinking about the causes and consequences of one’s distress or problems. It is typically characterized by passive focus, lingering thoughts, and a tendency to dwell on negative feelings rather than taking action to resolve the issue. In everyday language it is often described as overthinking or brooding.

In psychology, rumination is linked to mood and anxiety disorders. It can prolong or intensify depressive episodes and hinder recovery by maintaining negative mood states. Researchers distinguish between brooding, a maladaptive form, and reflective rumination, which may benefit problem-solving in some contexts but can still be impairing when excessive.

Assessment commonly uses self-report questionnaires such as the Ruminative Responses Scale. Rumination is considered a cognitive vulnerability factor for depression and a target of therapies. Neurobiological studies point to interactions between emotion processing regions (like the amygdala) and prefrontal control circuits that influence how thoughts are regulated.

Treatments aimed at reducing rumination include cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches. Techniques focus on increasing awareness of rumination, developing active problem-solving, and scheduling designated worry periods. Regular physical activity and sleep hygiene may support regulation of intrusive thoughts; pharmacotherapy may be indicated for comorbid conditions.

In zoology, rumination describes the digestive process of ruminant animals. After ingesting plant material, these animals regurgitate and rechew a portion of the meal (the cud) before swallowing again. This regurgitation allows microbial fermentation and breakdown of cellulose, supporting energy extraction from fibrous plant matter.