Posted by fires on January 2, 2006, at 21:35:37
In reply to What Do You Do If Your Mind Won't Quit Racing, posted by Phillipa on January 1, 2006, at 14:08:57
> I just can't get my mind to let me relax. I think I should always have somewhere to go or something to do. Can't concentrate to read a book or anything. What's wrong with me. Thanks, Phillipa
I do better with paradoxical approaches: more sensory input. I watch TV or turn on a radio. When your thoughts are racing, or when you are experiencing intrusive thoughts, try talking to someone. It's intresting that while talking, most people note a decrease in the above. A witchdoctor (oops, a therapist) told me about the technique.
I don't know if talking to oneself helps - you never know. ;) Also, I mentioned before that I have periods during which earworms really bother me. Lamictal seems to have helped a lot with those.
The ultimate paradoxical approach would be to try to make your thoughts race even faster! I wouldn't suggest this approach without seeking professional advice first. (I have heard about some improving their insomnia by trying not to fall asleep -- not with physical activity but with mental activity. It apparently reduces the worry and the rumination, which makes insomnia even worse).
poster:fires
thread:593978
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20051231/msgs/594533.html