Thought Reframing

We can’t stop thoughts appearing — but we can change how we respond.

Magnifier over thought bubble

1) Catch

Write the thought. Note trigger, body feelings, urge (e.g., avoid, scroll, snap).

Scale weighing evidence

2) Think

  • What’s the evidence for/against?
  • Is this all-or-nothing or mind-reading?
  • What would I say to a friend?
Small action arrow

3) Do

Choose a helpful micro-action (2 minutes) that moves you toward values.

Icons for common thinking traps

Thinking Traps

  • All-or-nothing, catastrophising
  • Over-generalising, should/oughts
  • Mind-reading, fortune-telling
Reframe cards: from harsh to helpful

Reframe Examples

  • “I always fail” → “I struggled last time; I can try a smaller step.”
  • “It must be perfect” → “Done at 80% beats stalled.”
  • “They’ll judge me” → “I can’t know; I’ll ask one clarifying question.”
Grounding: breathe, look, touch

Grounding

5-4-3-2-1: notice 5 things you see, 4 you feel, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste.

Try a 2-minute calm
Neurolinguistics Reprogramming Your Brain Visit the Growing hub

Important Note

The information on this page is for general understanding and support. It is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or legal advice. If you feel unable to keep yourself safe or someone else is at risk, call 999 (UK) immediately. If you’re outside the UK, contact your local emergency number.

For non-emergency concerns, consider speaking with a qualified health professional or one of the support services listed on our site.