02/19/2026
Stuck in the rumination loop? đ
It can look like âjust overthinking,â but for many people in recovery, rumination quietly raises stress, amplifies cravings, and increases relapse risk.
Hereâs what rumination often sounds like (and how it connects to SUD):
1) Replaying conversations: You keep rewinding what happened and what you shouldâve said, days later.
2) Catastrophizing: One worry turns into a worst-case future. Small stress starts to feel like a crisis.
3) Fixating on mistakes or fears: Pulled into the past (âI ruined everythingâ) or the future (âWhat if I canât handle it?â).
4) Chasing certainty: âIf I think about it long enough, Iâll feel better.â But the search for answers can increase anxiety.
5) Mentally exhausted, but you canât stop: Drained, tense, distracted, canât sleep, yet the thoughts keep looping.
6) Using substances to get a break: Alcohol/drugs can feel like a quick off-switch, until the after-effects bring more shame, anxiety, and more rumination.
Why it matters for SUD: Rumination ramps up emotional pain & stress. When discomfort climbs, cravings often follow. This isnât âweakness,â itâs your brain trying to escape fast.
Rumination is treatable, and you can learn skills to interrupt the loop and reduce cravings.
If overthinking is fueling cravings or relapse, NuView can help with personalized outpatient support for substance use & mental health.
đ Call (323) 307-7997 to talk with our team.