How to Stop Catastrophizing (in 5 Simple Steps!)

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  • Опубліковано 22 гру 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 805

  • @tcarousel8067
    @tcarousel8067 4 роки тому +34

    Thank you for the video. How can you identify if you are having catastrophic thoughts or it’s in fact the reality of the pandemic?

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +41

      Hi T Carousel: That is a great question. Overall, our anxiety will always try to convince us that it is reasonable and necessary! I think the key is to pull it back into, what can I do about it today? Humans have a wonderful ability to anticipate problems, but it is only really helpful if there is something we can do. So, if we are being careful, wearing masks, washing our hands and following social distancing rules, there is nothing else to do! If you are allowing your thoughts to project disaster scenarios, then your body is experiencing the chemical reactions of stress, yet there is nothing you can do, so it is only harming you. Does that make sense?

    • @hexane8
      @hexane8 3 роки тому +17

      If there's something constructive you can do in the present about what you're fearing, do it. Or write it down/plan.
      If not, that chattering voice in your head is unhelpful - it's taking you from the present moment which is the only place you can do anything. Call someone, exercise, pray, journal, run an errand, do a guided meditation, etc etc
      Choosing to pay close attention to the chattering monkey trapped in our heads is usually not helpful but we spend can spend all day in it. It's not the wise part of us that is connected with the universe/God. We can't hear the quieter, sometimes non-verbal messages of wisdom when we are tuned into the monkey mind.

    • @auhka782
      @auhka782 3 роки тому +2

      @@BarbaraHeffernan thanks

    • @fartunahmed7579
      @fartunahmed7579 2 роки тому

      Tnxs

    • @karstenburger9031
      @karstenburger9031 Рік тому

      Use your intelligence! Activate your own little scientist who asks for pro and con arguments, and search for the numbers: how big is the risk?
      And secondly: be careful with media, since they need to earn money and " sex and bad news sell".

  • @Nana-vg2xb
    @Nana-vg2xb 11 місяців тому +9

    I can absolutely relate to this. I panic because I panic because I might panic and if I do, then I might have a heart attack or give myself a stroke. I am working very hard to try to overcome this.

    • @marcoramirez432
      @marcoramirez432 6 місяців тому

      OMG I'm the same way. This month it's clauged arteries in my legs & neck. Getting better tho. I think I'm on my way over of this one. On to what ever the next symptom or catastrophy is I guess. Been at it for almost 5 years. Stay strong my friend good luck & GOD BLESS 👍👍🏽

  • @mryee5540
    @mryee5540 3 роки тому +227

    This was very helpful. I wouldn't wish my anxiety and depression on anyone. If you're reading this, God loves you, hang in there, you will be rewarded 10x your pain and suffering. Have faith and look forward to better days ahead. ❤️

    • @jimcox5151
      @jimcox5151 3 роки тому +1

      Thanks 😊

    • @RestingCatNipFace
      @RestingCatNipFace 3 роки тому

      🙏🏾💕

    • @luisenpairazaman
      @luisenpairazaman 3 роки тому +9

      Amén! Trust the God of the Heavens. He is so merciful and loving that He gave his Son for us to live the best life possible. Truth is what was, what is and will be. Don't worry. Relax and breathe. God has already won. Truth is whatever exists, so just say the truth.

    • @xxotiicaa8761
      @xxotiicaa8761 3 роки тому +1

      Thank you👍

    • @thereiceo
      @thereiceo 2 роки тому

      Amen!

  • @JustSamMorris
    @JustSamMorris 4 роки тому +186

    I catastrophize everything. I didn’t know it had a name. When it goes away for a while I think I’m well, then it comes back. It can be about work, taxes, health, relationships, anything. It always chooses a target and goes with it. It’s suffocating. I can’t help myself with it. :( I will try these things in your video.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +35

      Hi Just Sam: I know that feeling of not being able to control the mind - these habitual patterns take hold and are hard to change... but they really can be changed!! I also think that labeling what is happening and having that awareness is super important! I truly hope the suggestions are useful, and hopefully you can watch a few of the other CBT Anxiety related videos :)

    • @celestea5678
      @celestea5678 4 роки тому +8

      This exactly happens to me and i trying to stop it

    • @mendingmindfulness3739
      @mendingmindfulness3739 4 роки тому +7

      The future death of my father. It feels like his death will bring my mortality to the forefront and as someone who is visited by panic attacks, me, especially these days around my fathers some day death, it generates a fear and feeling that life and anxiety will become unmanageable. He is 73 with no major known health issues, but he is 72. Im energy sensitive and know he suffers anxiety/panic attacks, he used to deal with them telling himself he had another 50 years, then 40 years etc, but at 72 thats not working for him so well, maybe his attacks have increased and I'm feeling his. But I do catastrophize regardless.

    • @jasond3954
      @jasond3954 3 роки тому +8

      Taxes, car repairs, plumbing problems, travel plans anything that relies on other people really :/ I feel you you’re not alone

    • @BrianaJacoba
      @BrianaJacoba 10 місяців тому

      @@mendingmindfulness3739 Wow, yeah... It does sound hard to rely on a reframe like "there is still plenty of time" because, in one's 70s, that could start to feel like pressure to perform ALL of the things that were basically delayed... implicitly promising oneself to nevertheless do them someday... Sounds increasingly stressful. For both him and you.

  • @sksea
    @sksea 4 роки тому +112

    1. Increase awareness of your thoughts.
    2. Label your thoughts.
    3. Become aware of connection between your thoughts and physical feelings.
    4. Journaling or cbt thought log.
    5. Serenity prayer.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +9

      Yup! Hope it is helpful!

    • @cynthiaennis3107
      @cynthiaennis3107 2 роки тому +4

      Ok...so...what if I am in the middle of a Benzodiazepine Withdrawal, which I am & what if I have to move because my rent is 80+% of my income, which it is! & I’m told there’s nowhere to move? 🤷🏻‍♀️ With all close family deceased & almost all friends moved away! That’s all true! Hardly any quality of life! I’m mostly stuck in my apartment alone with my cat & can have a very hard time getting ADLs accomplished...🤦🏻‍♀️. Not enough memory to remember where I’d put a journal!

  • @sunglassesjohn
    @sunglassesjohn 4 роки тому +40

    I am facing a very real, potentially life changing circumstance. I have done all I can to positively influence the outcome. The decision making is completely out of my hands, and so now, I must wait.
    Today I was full of panic and anxiety, greif and remorse for something that hasn't even happened. I felt wretched.
    I ran a hot bath, settled in and played your video. It changed my world. ❤️x

  • @MrCubsfan1955
    @MrCubsfan1955 Рік тому +3

    Like one of the comments below, my catastrophizing involves the health of my loved ones, and very rarely (but not never) my health. My thoughts race to the worst possible outcome literally instantly, and become quite nauseous and panicked. The problem is that because there is always a change, albeit small, that the health issue is serious, I treat it as a fact, and I feel pretty much helpless. Your videos are great. Thank you.

  • @TorAbrams
    @TorAbrams 5 років тому +94

    I catastrophise rarely nowadays and have followed most of the steps in your video over the past few years. Everything you say here is very true 👍

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  5 років тому +9

      That is awesome! And you are proof it can be overcome!

    • @davidpoynton2277
      @davidpoynton2277 4 роки тому +6

      Your series of UA-cam videos are really life changing. Thank you

  • @ramonaem
    @ramonaem 4 роки тому +54

    I catastrophically think about everything, every bill to pay, every little pain, every situation, I feel insecure and alone 😓

  • @Steve-ht3ry
    @Steve-ht3ry 2 роки тому +3

    Hi Barbara
    I am 62 year old male that suffers from catastrophic thoughts, and the terror I feel is exhausting to me and my wonderful spouse. My thoughts usually revolve around loved ones health issues. The word cancer paralyzes me. No no cancer yet. I appreciate your video especially the faith aspect. I do believe in God, I guess i am narcissistic enough to think I can do better😊. So I am working hard on that aspect of my faith. Thank you for your video it does help. God bless you. You are helping many many people.

  • @xein89
    @xein89 3 роки тому +2

    I’ve been sick lately and the doctors don’t know what it is yet. It’s been a month going through tests. So I’m catastrophizing about everything and imagining I’ve got everything from cancer to permanent diseases/syndromes. One symptom I have is a wide pressure over my chest and rib cage. It makes it a bit difficult to take deep breathes. I drive myself into a panic and make it infinitely worse to the point I don’t even know if the pain is intense as it feels because I might just suffer from chest pains from anxiety on top of everything. Realized I had to calm down, and turned to UA-cam and found this. This is helping me calm down. So thank you.

  • @clovisrogers2685
    @clovisrogers2685 Рік тому +2

    I do this all the time, and it really makes me sick emotionally😢 anxiety off the chart. I’m watching these videos, and I thank you for your videos. I’m working on these things as you speak. Thank you so much 🙏🏼

  • @JessGuinan
    @JessGuinan Рік тому +2

    Found your video because I've been stressing out at work and catastrophizing a situation where I made a fairly big mistake. I dealt with it, and I'm dealing with fallout, but it's not as awful as I imagined.

  • @babycakes8434
    @babycakes8434 2 місяці тому +1

    You look great in this haircut Barbara.
    It is always nice to hear you. I do catastophize sometimes, and it spirals down worse once I start. It makes me all kinds of depressed and exhausted. If I feel mentally right, the catastrophizing doesn't get me, but if I feel down, that's when the catastrophizing spirals out of control.
    I am looking for a job now and it it easy to catastrophize at times, even though I try not to.

  • @user-ru1ki5rg6b
    @user-ru1ki5rg6b 2 роки тому +9

    I'm just coming out from doing this for a week. It's been that I'm going crazy, can't control my brain or "what if you go crazy enough to hurt yourself". It's been so bad I almost admitted myself because I couldn't stop. That you for all of your videos. You are saving lives!

  • @susanpettenati6329
    @susanpettenati6329 4 роки тому +35

    I catastrophize the loss of my spouse or adult children - and my own health. Thank you for this; it helps!

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому

      Hi Susan: I'm so glad it helps!!

    • @avamiller2325
      @avamiller2325 4 роки тому +1

      Same here!

    • @dazsalomon529
      @dazsalomon529 3 роки тому +1

      i do this also , cant cope when its happening , its totally drained me over the last ten years ,my doctor doesnt take me seriously even though i nearly drank myself to death , they shove prescriptions at me that dont work , feel terrible , will follow this video though , wil try anything

    • @gigigeigs7432
      @gigigeigs7432 3 роки тому

      I do this too! It can be devastating.

    • @shyaaammeneen63
      @shyaaammeneen63 3 роки тому +1

      @@avamiller2325 Heal yourself. Only if thought rumination is affecting your internal health you need to see a psychologist. Your breath is directly related to your mind [brain] causing negative thoughts-anxiety-stress. For a relaxed life sit on a chair, back erect, hands on lap with palms upwards, eyes closed, be still and observe your natural incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for around 10-15 minutes. Be as still as possible. Many thoughts will come which is ok--slowly negative thoughts will reduce and your mind will relax. During your daily activity keep observing your breath consciously. Best part is mood swings also reduce. Do the above meditation daily to feel relaxed. For more relaxation enter the following on google search and listen before sleep repeating the affirmations for 10 minutes in your mind. -“52Hz affirmations for health and healing you tube”. You will get relief quickly. Best wishes. Shyaaam Sir. -Counsellor.

  • @DodaiMelea
    @DodaiMelea 3 місяці тому +1

    Thank you so much I have learned so much from your videos in the last two weeks that I now have hope that there is a way out of this hell I have been living in forever it seems,but ive had anxiety over twenty years and full panic for over five,thank you from the bottom of my heart,I'm also agoraphobic.Thanks to your videos I now know that I unknowingly caused a lot of this myself because no therapists or phsychiatrists ive ever had have explained to me about the fight or flight response or the adrenaline and cortisol until I found you,so thank you again,I do have a wonderful therapist that comes to my apt and between the two of you I now have hope of getting my life back before I die God bless you and please keep making these videos!✌️❤️🙏🧘

  • @MarkJweather
    @MarkJweather 4 роки тому +27

    Stressing about physical pains I am having...always leads to Catastrophizing

  • @kandiceb2347
    @kandiceb2347 3 роки тому +43

    I’ve been suffering from really severe health anxiety for months now. I know I’m catastrophizing but I can’t stop it. I feel like I’m going crazy.

    • @courtney83353
      @courtney83353 3 роки тому +8

      Me too. I’m starting to wonder if my health issues are due to my anxiety.

    • @Debbles-F
      @Debbles-F 3 роки тому

      Me too, scared of covid, scared of the vaccine, can't win.

    • @cheechfive7fiveyt995
      @cheechfive7fiveyt995 3 роки тому

      How are you now kandice??

    • @andrewmatteucci6776
      @andrewmatteucci6776 2 роки тому +1

      I’m a huge hypochondriac, I’m constantly thinking I have cardiac related issues and I’m constantly checking my pulse

    • @jordanivanov5875
      @jordanivanov5875 2 роки тому +1

      @@andrewmatteucci6776 Tell me about it... Sometimes I just check mentally my chest and notice some sensations and think something is happening with my heart and it goes downhill from there. Its absurd and sometimes I awake at night with rushed adrenaline, wondering what the hell is happening.

  • @lindathomas9844
    @lindathomas9844 4 роки тому +6

    I am also a therapist and mindfulness teacher and I think this video is so succinct and well thought out.Tone of voice is calming too.Thank you Barbara for sharing .

  • @KymGphoto
    @KymGphoto 4 роки тому +50

    Always Catastophizing about health.... ocd health anxiety

    • @GarzaB
      @GarzaB 4 роки тому +3

      Me too... me too

    • @rossgenovese8679
      @rossgenovese8679 4 роки тому +4

      Kym George I have bad health anxiety. Struggling to cope with it. Would do anything to stop it.

    • @jhayannala
      @jhayannala 4 роки тому +4

      Battling with health anxiety for 3 mos now. I lost a lot of weight because of it.😢 I just want my old life back.😭

    • @ryarya3291
      @ryarya3291 4 роки тому +2

      same for me

    • @sandraport5955
      @sandraport5955 3 роки тому +4

      Me too, especially when waiting for routine test results

  • @BarbaraHeffernan
    @BarbaraHeffernan  5 років тому +48

    Do the 5 steps sound doable? Let me know if you think they'll help!

    • @sujay7301
      @sujay7301 4 роки тому +3

      Yes very much . CBT is very helpful 💐👌👍🙏

    • @nasralmaghout9402
      @nasralmaghout9402 4 роки тому +1

      All of them... the serenity prayer was the cherry on the top .

    • @nazarethforest8313
      @nazarethforest8313 4 роки тому

      pro-actively helpful🙏

    • @annschwartz775
      @annschwartz775 4 роки тому +1

      yes very much Barbara thank you. Where is the mini course on diaphramatic breathing you mentioned? Thank you so much

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +2

      @@annschwartz775 awakenjoy.thinkific.com/courses/the-aah-mini-series

  • @jeremymartin2631
    @jeremymartin2631 Рік тому +1

    I’ve been catastrophizing a lot lately and have been trying to learn that part of me believes that I’m safe and that there isn’t danger lurking around every corner.

  • @grainnehenry4766
    @grainnehenry4766 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you for been on UA-cam. I am blessed that I came across you now as I am in the middle of all this .

  • @Fae-bts
    @Fae-bts 3 роки тому +3

    I keep getting strange health problems, it is making my anxiety horrible. I've never seen anything like it and the wait to see my doctor is brutal.

  • @janishager9886
    @janishager9886 3 роки тому +3

    I am so thankful I came across your video tonight. I have been catastrophizing for years about health and dying, and working from home this past year due to the pandemic has increased this problem for me. There are several ways in which I am working towards my goal of healing and living a peaceful life, but it is hard. I feel abnormal, but in reading some of the comments here and seeing that many people suffer as I do, it calms me. I really like your five steps, especially the part of journaling where I write out an entirely different story, one with a happy ending. That right there reminds me of two things - 1) to practice releasing myself from trying to control the future through 'what if' thinking; and 2) I just don't have all the answers. I look forward to watching this one again, as well as new ones from you. Thank you.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому

      Hi Janis: Thanks so much for letting me know how helpful it was for you, and which parts in particular were helpful! I wish you health and healing, Barbara

  • @Ruifulify
    @Ruifulify 3 роки тому +4

    I just recently catastrophized over losing my job because depression caused me to be not as on top of things as usual. This was just two days ago and I'm already feeling a lot better and reassured. Though honestly, it would probably help if I set aside some time each day to learn some skills so that I could feel more secure in my ability to get re-employed elsewhere, even if losing my job is never a real threat.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому +3

      Yes, I do feel that when we stop catastrophizing we can focus on the steps we can take to make our lives better!

  • @paulavalle1168
    @paulavalle1168 4 роки тому +15

    Thank you for being so generous. You do so much for the anxious out there, making so many great tools readily available. Thank you!

  • @DawnW-q5p
    @DawnW-q5p 11 місяців тому +1

    Thank you for your Extremely Helpful Videos. I can't stop Catastrophizing about a Theft; Someone Stole from me. Presently I live in a Dorm-like Residence. There are Men and Women in my Residence. I have my own Bedroom and Bathroom. Inside my Bedroom, I keep a Locked Box which I keep Locked most of the time. Anytime I leave the Building I lock the Locked Box. Anytime I leave my Bedroom, I close the Door; however when I leave my Bedroom I do not always Lock my Bedroom Door. When I leave my Bedroom and am still in the Building, I do not always Lock the Locked Box in my Bedroom. Most other Residents regularly leave their Doors ajar. Usually there are People milling about the hallways and Common Areas of the Residence, and there's always at least one Person down the hallway at the Front Desk to make sure Strangers do not wander in off the Street; you have to know someone in the Building to be allowed in the Building. My Rent helps pay for the Buildings Security Measures. I felt that I got along with everyone in the Building. Many times when I bought a Dessert from the Supermarket, I shared it with other Residents. And I thought my Safety and Security Measures were enough to Safeguard my Belongings. So I was surprised to find out that Someone Stole Money from my Locked Box. I was so upset, and essentially I have not been able to forgive myself for being so Trusting that I did not Lock Everything all the time. I should have Locked my Door and my Locked Box every time I left my Bedroom. So now I lock my Bedroom Door every time I leave my Bedroom. And I lock my Locked Box anytime I'm not using it. Lesson Learned. But I still Ruminate and Catastrophize about "Who is the Thief?" "Will the Thief try to come back for more? Probably." "I'd better be Ready for the Thief to try to Return." "I'd better Safeguard myself as well, because who knows what other Crime the Thief might commit." "I could have really used that Money that was Stolen from me." "Am I going to wind up Poor because of this theft and my financial responsibilities?" Etc., etc., etc.

    • @BrianaJacoba
      @BrianaJacoba 10 місяців тому

      Sounds tough. I totally get it if some parts of you are on board with what sound like reasonable precautions you're now taking, other parts of you are not satisfied and want to do more, and maybe some even won't rest unless they can go back into the past and do better so as to be forgiven. So on top of feeling robbed, you are robbed of peace of mind, too...

  • @CariP_916
    @CariP_916 2 роки тому +2

    This is great! Thank you. We might as well believe the universe will take care of things and that it will all be ok no matter what.

  • @paulasynjohnson
    @paulasynjohnson 4 роки тому +16

    I just ruminate replaying out past traumatic experiences and I get angrier and angrier the longer I do it for.

    • @jvrock7
      @jvrock7 3 роки тому +3

      In that case from what I've seen of her other videos, the movie technique can make things worse so maybe stay away from that. And with replaying tramas, what you want to do is grounding, which is basically a fancy word for various techniques that bring yourself and your brain back to the present. In a therapy session the other day, I got onto the topic of emitophobia and describing one of my first memories of it and I got stuck in a loop and kept going further and further into ptsd response and at one point my therapist asked me about my shirt, led me through describing all the various colors(tie dye) and details, and it brought me back to the present moment and calmed the ptsd response.
      Anf I did it myself last night when I got stuck on memories of my abuser, wasn't as effective but definitely better than nothing. And when it stopped working I decided fuck this I'm gonna distract myself, and watched videos of other things I'm interested in, got involved in conversation in Facebook groups about other things, and it took almost an hour to fully calm down but it worked.

  • @niveditathakur6530
    @niveditathakur6530 2 роки тому +2

    The video was really amazing... I just recently got panicked about like someone is always chasing after me and trying to pull me down which indeed happened a times which led me to catastrophate to heal me from imagining the worst... But seriously it takes a lot of practice to come out of that again ❤

  • @casario2808
    @casario2808 3 роки тому +2

    I find catastrophizing is so amplified by anxiety (and can be harmless in fact if I am not so stressed) and then is so tied to somatization of physical symptoms. It becomes a vicious and self-fueling circle. Thank you for these very useful tips. I work with a therapist and been doing mindfulness for many years, ACT etc...but your simple steps and advice are very useful.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому

      So glad to hear that it was helpful. Yes, each of those things fuel the others....

  • @EliMagidsLuxuryHomes
    @EliMagidsLuxuryHomes 5 років тому +7

    Catastrophic Thinking can have devastating effects . Having awareness is key. It is a distortion is right ! I think it was Einstein who said that " I have worried about a million things in my life, and a few actually came true "-- Something to that effect !

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  5 років тому

      Hi: Yes, Mark Twain said something along those lines. I put that in one of my videos - CBT for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: ua-cam.com/video/yw4lCRjsmLE/v-deo.html

  • @AliA-we2uu
    @AliA-we2uu 4 місяці тому

    Very helpful for me! Thank you so much Barbara! God bless you!

  • @suponglongkumer5393
    @suponglongkumer5393 2 роки тому +2

    Very helpful 🙏...I have been suffering from anxiety and depression for years...and I couldn't differentiate that with catastrophizing...I am very grateful for clearing my doubts and making my life better with your priceless wisdom 🙏

  • @Cheri94
    @Cheri94 3 роки тому +1

    This is literally my life for years, I am SO glad I watched this, you can’t even imagine how grateful I am, thank you

  • @Ironfist_007
    @Ironfist_007 3 роки тому +5

    The serenity prayer is so thought provoking, especially the last part 'wisdom to know the difference'. Thanks for making this video. 🙏

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому

      You are so welcome! I do find that prayer extremely helpful!

  • @corytrevorson1411
    @corytrevorson1411 4 роки тому +5

    You're helping me a ton!
    I have some bad anger issues and they're jeopardizing my marriage.
    I've already made huge improvements i just hope it's not too late.
    My wife is the love of my life and having a strong, positive husband would help bring the joy back to her life and our marriage.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому

      So pleased the videos are helping. Sounds like you have a wonderful relationship to protect and honor :)

    • @karthickdevarajan2102
      @karthickdevarajan2102 4 роки тому +1

      It is never too late. Here's wishing you an anger-free life.

  • @barbarav108
    @barbarav108 2 роки тому +2

    You are always helpful and calming. What is particularly challenging is life stressors that are indeed scary ( eg, grandchildren in child custody battle), and lead to constant ruminating, but truly is not solvable by me. So, not easy to stop ruminating but not something that I can solve.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  2 роки тому

      Yes, I understand - and that is a very, very challenging situation. The main concept of rumination or anxiety is to truly realize it is not helpful - it doesn't change anything. Our brains somehow believe that if they go over and over stuff, we'll somehow figure out something... but it is false. This is a good question - I may do a short video on it!

  • @WingsTM
    @WingsTM 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for this video. It really helped me a lot today. I am visitng my family in the States for the holidays while my partner is back in Europe. Whenever he doesn't write back to me (for more than 12 hours) or doesn't answer my calls, I start having panic attacks and imagining that something bad happened to him, or that he is upset and decided to break up with me, etc. Even though we've been together for 6 years and this is my 5th time going to the US for the holidays! We have some problems in our relationship and if I work on those it would be more productive than panicking.
    Ironically I was showing him 'how to stop catastrophizing' videos a few months ago, now I'm the one that needs them. :) Thank you again!

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому +1

      You are welcome. And thanks for sharing - this is a very common thing people panic about - and it is great you are aware of how unhelpful it is!!

  • @Books-and-coffee0
    @Books-and-coffee0 3 роки тому +7

    I've been bullied a lot so now everytime I meet someone or having even a simple social interaction, I can't stop imagining the worst will happen. It's a horrible thing =(

  • @lotus8203
    @lotus8203 3 роки тому +24

    Feeling like I'm going to get punished for being sinful in my past. It comes on so strong.

    • @ritaguirguis2474
      @ritaguirguis2474 3 роки тому +11

      God loves you more than you can imagine and He says as long as you repent you will be forgiven

    • @margrose5
      @margrose5 3 роки тому +3

      @@ritaguirguis2474 amen to that!

    • @lalalalala821
      @lalalalala821 2 роки тому +3

      1 corinthians 15:1-4

    • @judee.baland6526
      @judee.baland6526 10 місяців тому

      Humans are the only species in creation who judge themselves and others and fear judgement. It’s one of,any scientific proofs that our Creator God exists. Our enemy uses our fear against us, but prayer and faith in God gives us assurance.. talk to Him He knows all about you and still loves us, makes us His own family

  • @AThickBurrito
    @AThickBurrito 4 роки тому +5

    You hit every single nail on the head. I recently discovered the term catastrophizing and im currently doing research to try and get better. This pandemic has been extremely difficult for me and I would say this has been The hardest four months of my life. I wish your videos got more views because I know there’s thousands of others out there feeling the exact same way. Thank you for uploading this

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +1

      Hi Dad Hats: I'm so pleased you found this video helpful. And views on my channel are accelerating! It is a lot of work, and can be slow, but the growth is fun to watch and it is nice to receive feedback that I am helping people :). Wishing you the best on your healing journey.

  • @Leila_patric
    @Leila_patric Рік тому

    I’m here right now because I’m overthinking about me and my boyfriends break up there’s possibility we could get back together but the thoughts of him replacing me and falling for another girl have definitely been bothering me all day. So far this actually really helps

  • @JanetUK
    @JanetUK Місяць тому

    Thank you. This was the most helpful of all the videos I've seen on the subject. Much appreciated (and needed)

  • @marabraham379
    @marabraham379 3 місяці тому

    Just found out your videos when searching for a solution to my never ending ansiety. Thank you for your work.

  • @laurielambert4269
    @laurielambert4269 3 роки тому +4

    Thank you for so kindly offering your experience and expertise free on UA-cam. So incredibly helpful and appreciated! I am a new subscriber. I believe that what you are doing is a gift of kindness to the world.

  • @atulct
    @atulct 3 роки тому +8

    For me Catastrophizing is all about replaying my traumatic experiences from the past in newer situations. I have been working on getting away from a bully in my neighborhood, basically changing my home location to go and live in a different neighborhood. But my mind kind of oscillates between two things. First is to go back and teach him/her a lesson, which I know i will not do as fighting is not my nature. Second that in the new neighborhood i am going to come across another bully and then i am going to get the same treatment that i had got in the past. This is the cycle that plays in my mind every day that I wake up!

    • @josephtemple1667
      @josephtemple1667 2 роки тому

      You seem to be catastrophizing and ruminating at the same time. I too was bullied and would often replay those moments in my head over and over again. The only difference was that I created an alternate ending that usually involved a violent revenge scenario against the bully. I often wondered why I kept coming back to these painful moments from my past until I finally realized that it was the secondary emotion it created: By getting revenge, it gave me a sense of power and control; that is why I kept ruminating. Once I realized this, I began to stop thinking about it.
      I suggest watching Barbara's video about rumination. The key is to label these thoughts and recognize them as being unhealthy. In terms of catastrophizing, think of all the times you thought something bad was going to happen and never did. I quickly realized that if ten problems are coming your way, the chances are that nine of them will fall by the wayside. Also, I know this sounds terribly cliche but focus on today and tomorrow will take care of itself. Hope this helps.

    • @BrianaJacoba
      @BrianaJacoba 10 місяців тому

      @@josephtemple1667 both of you are so insightful!

  • @annmuchira6775
    @annmuchira6775 2 роки тому

    Thanks Barbara, oh yeah Prayers to God during anxiety have really helped me watching from Kenya

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  2 роки тому +1

      Yes, a strong spiritual belief can be very helpful. Welcome and thank you for watching from Kenya!

  • @aliciatorres91
    @aliciatorres91 2 роки тому

    Thank you so much. I find that guided meditations help me a lot. I have to get the journaling again. I was very anxious and nervous about the time when Hurricane Ian was about to land in Florida and my husband and son were there. I wrote down everything they told me and that alleviated some of my anxiety and they arrive home safely after a 2 day road trip. You’re very clear and concise about catastrophizing. It’s a learned way to cope with the anxious feelings. But the main thing is: what is the main problem? I have faith in God and I will continue to say the Serenity Prayer 🙏 ❤

  • @smithliz70
    @smithliz70 9 місяців тому +1

    Catastrophized about a spat I had with a lady that works at club I belong to. Blew it up in my head for days.

  • @FoxyFatePresents
    @FoxyFatePresents 2 роки тому

    I wil never get tired of watching this video . THanks Barbara!

  • @shilpalakdawala8440
    @shilpalakdawala8440 Рік тому

    It's a very kind gesture you are doing for mankind for free ...I am from India and your techniques and exact description are helping me little by little.Thank you.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  Рік тому

      Thank you so much for letting me know..., It is very helpful to me to know it is helping! Wishing you all the best, Barbara

  • @sandeepchoudhry3576
    @sandeepchoudhry3576 3 роки тому

    Barbara you are amazing.Kindly tell your viewers to jot down their thoughts on a paper and then work on them.Doing so many things on a mental level creates chaos and leaves one fatigued and more anxious

  • @irockluckycharms
    @irockluckycharms 3 роки тому

    I love to travel, but for the past few years my catastrophic travel-related thoughts have grown. They’ve extended to the point that if someone I love is traveling, I catastrophize their trips as well. I worry my loved ones will never return! It feels silly even to type it out, I know it’s so distorted. I want to be able to enjoy traveling again so I’m going to practice mindfulness, recognizing my distorted thinking, and changing my behavior when I feel can’t control my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you so much for your videos!

  • @Gleyi07
    @Gleyi07 3 роки тому +1

    You really gave me peace. I wish I could send you flowers 💐 as a big Thank You❤️

  • @GarzaB
    @GarzaB 4 роки тому +5

    This very video is helping me so much right now. Thank you!

  • @kimparlock3151
    @kimparlock3151 Рік тому

    Barbara, just wanted to shout out to you ......for all your helpful tools in these videos! As a registered nurse for 38 years, my anxiety has increased and I find myself catastrophizing over the simplest mundane things (worse since the pandemic...). This week was a particularly rough one at work, and I found myself in a "dither". I said to myself, "I need Barbara!". You have a way of putting things into logical perspective and I personally can "change the lens" within a few videos of yours! (Kind of like the optometrist lens changer machine they use!). I love your wisdom, and it has helped me reframe my life time and time again. Many hugs from Idaho......and thanks....... you are amazing!!! :)

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  Рік тому +1

      ❤😀 Love your comment! So pleased I can help via these videos! How wonderful that you do the work you do - it is not easy being a nurse! Love the optometrist lens changer imagery - I might use that in the future! Stay well!

    • @kimparlock3151
      @kimparlock3151 Рік тому

      My husband just watched the same video (we both have GAD, can you imagine??! ) he loves it too. Again, I turn to your videos when I seem to “ramp” up with the anxiety. You are wonderful!! 🌿💗💕☺️🙏💚

  • @themagicseed6816
    @themagicseed6816 4 роки тому +20

    I just found your channel and subscribed right away! I’ve been battling my demons such as anxiety, self sabotage & catastrophizing and I freaking loved your tips 💗 I know I’m worthy and deserve happiness so I’ll be practicing and overcome this mountain 💪

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +1

      Awesome, Hilary (awesome that you know you are worth, not that you've had to battle so much)! Welcome to the channel! Also, if you are interested in joining my upcoming webinar, the link is below the notes to the show - two live dates in Nov, 2 in Dec. All the best
      Barbara

  • @lukematic812
    @lukematic812 Місяць тому

    I love your channel ❤ I have felt better watching your videos. Thank you.

  • @GYTCommnts
    @GYTCommnts 2 роки тому

    I'm not into commenting private stuff on UA-cam, but the help that this video gave me, deserves an exception. Sometimes I find myself catastrophizing, primarily about work, because I have responsabilities with the possibility of mistakes that could harm people or my bosses for that mistakes. Not "life or death" things, thank God, but important things nevertheless. So is very exaggeratedly "tragic" for me when I'm at the verge of the possibility of a mistake. And I feel awful, and a rollercoaster of anxiety and catastrophizing thinking. Thanks for this video. It's a "life saver" (exaggerating again 😁) in this situations.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  2 роки тому +1

      Hi G YT: Thanks for making the exception :). I truly hope this video helps! Barbara

  • @triciaurquhart1
    @triciaurquhart1 4 роки тому +7

    This was a great video very helpful, catching the thought and recognising what it is, thank you

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому

      So happy to hear it was helpful!

    • @oscarwilliamson1264
      @oscarwilliamson1264 4 роки тому

      tricia urquhart, you look gorgeous 🌹 🌹🌷 🌷🌺 🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀

  • @davidpoynton2277
    @davidpoynton2277 2 роки тому

    Thank you Barbara . This and your other videos have helped me realise I'm not alone in feeling the way I have done all my life. Your videos have made me realise that on many occasions I have wasted the precious gift of life I have been given, but no more thanks to your videos

  • @nox4train
    @nox4train 2 роки тому

    this video is very helpful to me. Thank you for sharing your process and information

  • @amyj.4992
    @amyj.4992 2 роки тому +1

    Having emotional support animals are so helpful, and grounding. Anxiety best respond to sensory presence exercises. I used to catastrophize ALL the people closest to me would turn on me, and it turned into a self fulfilled prophecy. And that was a hard ass karmic lesson I needed to really check and correct. I had to deal with my codependency issues, so I can stop triggering my abandonment wounds. But it actually had to happen, and my faith allowed me to overcome the trial and the pain. Waking me up to my inner child wounds, and how I needed to quit abandoning her and blaming everyone else for my pain

  • @coldcoffeeandcake-7511
    @coldcoffeeandcake-7511 3 роки тому

    I catastrophise about my new job and how I'm going to learn to do everything and do it right. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

  • @jessiescoullar5775
    @jessiescoullar5775 4 роки тому +2

    Health, social anxiety struggling alot will try to stop catastrophising

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому

      Hope this was helpful.

    • @shyaaammeneen63
      @shyaaammeneen63 3 роки тому

      Jessie, Heal yourself. Only if thought rumination is affecting your internal health you need to see a psychologist. Your breath is directly related to your mind [brain] causing negative thoughts-anxiety-stress. For a relaxed life sit on a chair, back erect, hands on lap with palms upwards, eyes closed, be still and observe your natural incoming--outgoing breath at the entrance of the nostrils for around 10-15 minutes. Be as still as possible. Many thoughts will come which is ok--slowly negative thoughts will reduce and your mind will relax. During your daily activity keep observing your breath consciously. Best part is mood swings also reduce. Do the above meditation daily to feel relaxed. For more relaxation enter the following on google search and listen before sleep repeating the affirmations for 10 minutes in your mind. -“52Hz affirmations for health and healing you tube”. You will get relief quickly. Best wishes. Shyaaam Sir. -Counsellor.

  • @inazarolaciregui
    @inazarolaciregui 2 роки тому

    I'm glad I found this video! A godsend! Thank you!

  • @seeingdragons4319
    @seeingdragons4319 2 роки тому

    Excellent video. Thank you. Mine is I’m growing old and catastrophizing over future security

  • @kl4088
    @kl4088 3 роки тому +1

    I catasrophise mostly about health since the pandemic has started I’ve been struggling with it a lot recently thanks for uploading this video I’ll try these steps now

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому +1

      I hope it is helpful!

    • @kl4088
      @kl4088 3 роки тому

      @@BarbaraHeffernan yes it was very helpful I can control my thoughts much better please keep up your great work

  • @ayaansaifi9795
    @ayaansaifi9795 4 роки тому +1

    Maam after 4 months of depression finally i laughed i was severely affected by it thanks a lot maam i was just fighting with my thoughts from last 4 months ...😇😇😇

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +1

      So glad it brought you a laugh! A sense of humor helps us get through difficult times :)

  • @catherinem7756
    @catherinem7756 2 роки тому

    Hello Barbara, I discovered this video on UA-cam yesterday as I am trying to understand more the how and why about catastrophic thoughts. The prayer is unbelievably helpful. Thanks for sharing this video that I saved and will be watching when ever it is needed.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  2 роки тому +1

      Wonderful! I truly hope it is helpful. Wishing you the best!

  • @tamikaanne5890
    @tamikaanne5890 4 роки тому

    Have really bad health anxiety over 20 years on and off now. Was diagnosed with general anxiety disorder all those years ago. I finally got to manage the health anxiety but now it’s back with vengeance 😞 I’m back seeing a counsellor again. I feel I’m getting worse at ruminating again and this past weekend had alcohol which sent my fear right over the top that I feel so ashamed and embarrassed as I went live on social media embarrassing my teenage daughter too. My main health anxiety right now is high cholesterol as the heart would be my main fear in all of this. I’m going to follow your guidance now thank you and I’ve subscribed also. I’ve literally only started a new job in the last week and don’t know if I’m able for it even thiough it’s only temporary as havnt worked since Covid arrived in March. I’m all over the place and just don’t know what to do!

  • @Gingerdreaddy
    @Gingerdreaddy 3 роки тому +1

    Thank you again. Your my reinforcement when my anxiety grows from my control. My recurrent catastrophes is health and pain. I worry my years of anxiety is going to make me die lol. I know its distorted because i always get good grades when i go to the doctor. I feel remorse (chance to have had a better quality life) that i didn't get help sooner.

  • @mahlenm5673
    @mahlenm5673 3 роки тому +1

    Thankyou for posting this. I feel reassured that everything is gonna work out and that there are tools we use to overcome any episodes of anxiety.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому

      so pleased to hear that this gave you that confidence! Yes! there are tools to use and things will work out :)

  • @wesosborne3520
    @wesosborne3520 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks for this Barbara, I had a very bad experience when I lost my Job and Catastrophised how would I support my family. As Mark Twain once said I have had many worries in my life but few have come true. Journal being started tomorrow. Be safe.

  • @zupamum
    @zupamum 4 роки тому

    It only took me 65 years to find someone who can put into words clearly how I feel and think which has prevented me from living a more happy and fulfilled life, what seems like forever! Thank you, I am looking to watch your other videos! Relief is on it’s way for me, thank you Barbara!

  • @joshuaupgren4772
    @joshuaupgren4772 4 роки тому

    Ive catastrophized about being conscious, like i cant comprehend the world around me, and im viewing the world from inside a window, ive tried these steps before they are very helpful, and a good reminder. The whole "point out distorted thinking method is helpful"

  • @Patricia-413
    @Patricia-413 2 роки тому

    I struggle with meditation. I need to find a GOOD guided meditation until I build that muscle up over time. I've been catastrophizing about a certain situation (that may never even happen!!) and I found making a chart listing the worries I have in the first column and the solution/steps to handle the worry if it does happen in the second column helps SO much!

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  2 роки тому

      The chart is a great tool to use - and thanks for sharing it with everyone! I do have a meditation playlist you can check out, and there are many on UA-cam so I hope you find one that resonates!ua-cam.com/play/PLhEK7JY7zF9loqErUBTDjrq7wfgPlv7f1.html

  • @yunabriones7913
    @yunabriones7913 5 місяців тому

    This is very helpful. Thank you!

  • @MsRagini
    @MsRagini 3 роки тому

    Thnk you for the practical learnings from your videos. Thank you for reminding me about serenity prayer. I will follow your simple 5 steps

  • @OrangePony75
    @OrangePony75 Рік тому

    Spanish author Rafael Santandreu uses the term “terribilyzing”, which I really like (perhaps because of the rolled R). Very helpful video, thanks 🙏

  • @danielaversiani5592
    @danielaversiani5592 4 роки тому +1

    Thank you so much for your explanation. I was having an anxiety crises and listening you helped me. Understand how catastrophic thoughts work has helped me a lot. Thank you. (Sorry for my poor English). ❤️

  • @monikaram17602
    @monikaram17602 Рік тому

    Ur videos help me a lot,I really appreciate the work u do in creating your videos,they really had gud info and life changing 🌞💪👈

  • @sulpanharahap6502
    @sulpanharahap6502 Рік тому

    You are so nice. Thank you l will try your suggestion. I think this is helpfull. Sorry my English is not so good.

  • @studlydude2000
    @studlydude2000 3 роки тому

    thank you. i'm in this category and this video helped. about my current relationship and her distancing from me. what if....what if....all these scenarios. shes done it before and it turned out to actually be something, so that doesn't help this time around,.

  • @manojsaladi8886
    @manojsaladi8886 5 місяців тому

    Thanks, very helpful!

  • @dawnmariespilsbury6701
    @dawnmariespilsbury6701 Рік тому

    Bless you for sharing these insightful and helpful videos ❤

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  Рік тому

      So pleased you find them useful, and thank you! ❤️

  • @519djw6
    @519djw6 3 роки тому +1

    Hello Barbara, Thank you for this video! My problem is that I've suffered from insomnia since I was about 20 years old. I've been going through the incidents in my life that might have traumatized me and caused this insomnia. I'm going to listen to all of your talks to try to ferret out exactly what has caused me to have so much trouble getting to sleep--and more recently *staying* asleep.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  3 роки тому +1

      Insomnia can be very complex, and so sorry to hear you are suffering with it! CBT-I has great research (CBT-Insomnia). I am not a specialist in it, but I believe it can often help. Wishing you the best,

  • @kremerkid
    @kremerkid 3 роки тому +3

    I catastrophize my interactions with other people, especially when it comes to dating. Sometimes heartbreak comes with dating and courtship and I'm convinced that all my actions in whatever situation will lead down that path. Similar to that, but also in other areas of my life, I'm afraid if I made the "right choice" or not. I question my decisions and lack confidence to move forward as I'm petrified by it being the "wrong choice".

    • @javierpacheco8234
      @javierpacheco8234 2 роки тому

      I suffer from that too, I wish I could stop being scared.

  • @glen458
    @glen458 3 роки тому +1

    The best most realistic advice ever. Thank you so much

  • @salaamletstalk
    @salaamletstalk 4 роки тому +1

    I stumbled upon your channel by chance since I am a GP who practices with mindfulness, focused psychological sessions and CBT and have found your videos and strategies very helpful. Thank you so much for the amazing work you are doing. I firmly believe in these 5 steps and definitely find them not only credible but easily doable. God bless.

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  4 роки тому +1

      You are so welcome! It sounds like you will put this information to good use!

  • @nintendy
    @nintendy Рік тому

    Your Video helped me SO much! Thank You! x

  • @stefaniapetruzziello2019
    @stefaniapetruzziello2019 Рік тому

    God bless you, thank you!!!!

  • @dennydg57
    @dennydg57 4 роки тому +1

    I found your video looking for something to help me from catastrophic thinking about a health issue and you addressed it all. You reminded me of some things I needed to remember and gave me some new ideas. I appreciate that you present everything simply and clearly. Thank you for posting these videos it's like free therapy 🤪

  • @wilmer1211
    @wilmer1211 4 роки тому +2

    Hello..doc, im catastrophizing my breathing..because i suffered from hypokalemia and now im suffering from anxiety...thank you..

  • @muhallebi6168
    @muhallebi6168 2 роки тому

    Thank you for the video. It would have been super helpful if you described what catastrophizing exactly is and if you could give some solid tangible examples of catastrophizing. That would have been super helpful for us to catch and identify similar moments in our lives

    • @BarbaraHeffernan
      @BarbaraHeffernan  2 роки тому +1

      Interesting comment... I guess I skipped over defining it?! I'll have to rewatch. Maybe put out another with your suggestions. Thanks!

  • @21Virtues
    @21Virtues 5 років тому +2

    Great Video Barbara, great tips and journaling is something i have done for years. However, i think the greatest tool is awareness and what i am all about.

  • @sophiaroychoudhury2997
    @sophiaroychoudhury2997 5 місяців тому

    Wonderful videos Barbara❤