Feel
How to challenge negative thoughts
There are lots of different patterns of thinking that can trip you up when you’re not feeling your best. Perhaps you always imagine the worst possible outcome, or blame yourself when things go wrong. Challenging this way of thinking isn’t easy, but there are some key things you can do.

Ask yourself these two key questions
Firstly, “How likely is it that something will happen?” Really think about it, if it’s not likely then give yourself permission to let the thought or worry go.
If it is likely, ask yourself, “What’s the worst that can happen?” Try to think rationally and evaluate your answer. If the worst-case scenario really isn’t that bad, allow yourself to be free of your negative beliefs or ways of thinking.
Think about your future self
If something did happen, try to think about your future self. “Will it affect you in so many months or years’ time?”
When things don’t go to plan, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and worry in the immediacy of the situation. But by stepping back and putting this moment into context, you may be able to help yourself cope in the here and now.
Weigh up the evidence
The way we feel isn’t necessarily how everyone else thinks or feels about a situation. For example, if you’re off sick from work, you might assume that people are talking about you or judging you. But do you have any evidence to support this?
Try to challenge your assumptions by looking at, and weighing up the evidence. Even though you initially think a certain way, perhaps this isn’t the case. In reality, you might have received a message from a concerned colleague or learn to realise that everyone is busy and not concerned with passing judgement.
Evaluate the costs versus benefits of negative thoughts
Call your thoughts and beliefs into question and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. Note them down if this helps. Overall, ask yourself: “Is it worth it?” Perhaps your thoughts and beliefs are making you feel tired, upset or more worried. Acknowledging this may help you to change negative ways of thinking.
These are just some of the techniques that may be used in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – a therapy designed to help you change negative patterns in how you think, feel and behave.
If you are having negative thoughts, it’s important to speak to your GP. They can refer you for further help and support, or you may be able to refer yourself.
Our health insurance allows you to skip a GP referral in some cases, and speak to a mental health practitioner. Learn more today.
-
Sources
- Psychotherapy. Oxford Handbook of Psychiatry (4 ed online.). Oxford Medicine Online. oxfordmedicine.com, published July 2019
- Negative thinking: CBT tools. NHS Fife Department of Psychology. moodcafe.co.uk, reviewed 2013
- Cully, J.A., & Teten, A.L. 2008. A Therapist’s Guide to Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Department of Veterans Affairs South Central MIRECC, Houston. Module 10: Challenging maladaptive thoughts and beliefs
More feel articles...
Health information
At Bupa we produce a wealth of free health information for you and your family. We believe that trustworthy information is essential in helping you make better decisions about your health and care.
Our latest articles
Legal disclaimer
This information was published by Bupa's Health Content Team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been reviewed by appropriate medical or clinical professionals and deemed accurate on the date of review. Photos are only for illustrative purposes and do not reflect every presentation of a condition.
Any information about a treatment or procedure is generic, and does not necessarily describe that treatment or procedure as delivered by Bupa or its associated providers.
The information contained on this page and in any third party websites referred to on this page is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice nor is it intended to be for medical diagnosis or treatment. Third party websites are not owned or controlled by Bupa and any individual may be able to access and post messages on them. Bupa is not responsible for the content or availability of these third party websites. We do not accept advertising on this page.
For more details on how we produce our content and its sources, visit the 'About our health information' section.
^We may record or monitor our calls