Positive thinking: Stopping unwanted thoughts

Why should you learn thought-stopping?

Studies show that when you change what you think, you can change your mood. Thought-stopping is easy to learn, and it can help you feel better. Negative, unwanted thoughts can lead to anxiety or depression. They can keep you from sleeping well. And they can make it hard for you to work and enjoy your life.

Thought-stopping also can help if you already have anxiety or depression. It's one way to take an active role in your treatment. You can prevent some of the thoughts that make you anxious or depressed.

You can learn to do thought-stopping anywhere, so it can help you at work or at home. It's also easy to learn. But it does take some practice.

In some cases, you may need more help to stop thoughts that worry you or make you feel bad. Some thoughts or behaviors can't be handled by thought-stopping alone. Seek the help of your doctor or a licensed therapist or counselor if you can't stop unwanted thoughts on your own.

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Author:	Marianne Flagg	Last Updated: August 27, 2008
Medical Review:	Catherine D. Serio, PhD - Behavioral Health Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
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