[Crook32]

I keep getting stuck in this cycle of irrational thoughts. I know it is stupid but I keep going back to it.

I want to run from my responsibilities but even if I try to take a break for a little while I feel guilty. I can't live with the guilt of not taking care of my family. So I start to think that the only way for me to get a break is if I was dead.

I know that is stupid and a giant leap from A to Z but I just can't shake it.

[vonapathy]

I wish I had life affirming something to say...but I just.. I completely understand. All we can do is hold on a little bit longer and not let those irrational thoughts get to us.

[JaneHB]

Originally Posted by Crook32

I keep getting stuck in this cycle of irrational thoughts. I know it is stupid but I keep going back to it.

I want to run from my responsibilities but even if I try to take a break for a little while I feel guilty. I can't live with the guilt of not taking care of my family. So I start to think that the only way for me to get a break is if I was dead.

I know that is stupid and a giant leap from A to Z but I just can't shake it.

Oh how I wish it was easy to banish negative, destructive thoughts and replace them with the rational ones which are more likely to be true. I am ploughing through my Burns book at the moment to see what I can do to try and break the cycle.

A little while back I had a rather bad emotional shock, which by no means helped the cycle of irrational thinking I was in. I decided to try a blend of Bach Flower remedies. I chose Star of Bethlehem for the shock, Aspen for the anxiety, Chicory for being "overfull of care" and White Chestnut for unwanted thoughts & mental arguments.

I began to feel calmer almost straight away. I really have no idea whether these remedies work or perhaps it was just a placebo. Whichever, I didn't care as I actually felt better.

Take care

[Christina86]

I recognize that cycle!

Have you tried CBT by any chance? It can be useful.

[Maranara]

Try a little bit of mindfulness meditation. It has done wonders for me when it comes to the thoughts. It's not perfect and it requires some work but it does work when you put the effort in.

You can go to dbtselfhelp.com and go to the section called "Instant Mindfulness" and try a few guided ones. The important thing is to focus on the moment. What is happening now instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Not expect instant help but if you approach it with an open mind it can do wonders. It's the only thing I've found that helps at all.

If you'd like additional resources, feel free to PM me.

[gayleggg]

I can relate. I can't get rid of mine either.
Gayle

[Crook32]

Thanks for all the replies. In a strange way it is nice to know I am not the only one with these thoughts. Though I wish none of us had to deal with them.

I do have a therapist and will try and talk to her about it tonight.

I have tried mindfulness exercises but I can never quiet my mind enough.