This psychoeducational handout defines rumination and normalizes it as a common response to stress—while clarifying when it becomes a problem. It explains how excessive rumination can maintain depression by pulling attention toward causes and consequences rather than solutions, and highlights the difference between unhelpful “why” questions and more productive “how” questions. Use it early in treatment to build shared language, reduce shame, and prepare clients for skills practice (self-monitoring, cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation).

Best for

• Depression-related rumination and repetitive negative thinking

• Clients who feel stuck replaying problems or past events

• Setting up CBT/ACT-informed interventions focused on attention and action