Ask Pat

Why do I have so many negative thoughts, especially about my children?

Q)Why do I have so many negative thoughts, especially about my children?

A)

I certainly appreciate your concern. It would be helpful to know what kinds of thoughts you are having. Are you concerned that you are going to do something harmful toward your children? Are your thoughts and negativity getting in the way of your relationships with people? Negative thoughts are harmful to ourselves as well. We feel badly about having them. Obviously this is bothering you and you would like to get some help for it. It could be that you are going through a particularly stressful time and could use some support in your life. You may be experiencing some depression. It is impossible to know with so little information. In the best interest of yourself and your children it would be most helpful for you to talk to a counselor to get an assessment of what is going on and to get ideas about how to improve things. If you are currently enrolled as a CSU student, come to the University Counseling Center at C-36 Clark, or call us at 491-6053. Otherwise, start by calling the Larimer Center for Mental Health at 221-2114.