What Is Catastrophizing? Cognitive Distortions

The definition of catastrophizing and how to overcome it.

Updated March 20, 2026 | Reviewed by Devon Frye

Catastrophizing is a common cognitive distortion that has been extensively studied in psychology.

What is Catastrophizing?

Catastrophizing has two parts:

The counterevidence to this fallacy is that many people who are eventually successful have failed an exam before. Plus, many types of important exams even offer multiple opportunities to take them.

3 Psychological Mechanisms Related to Catastrophizing

Psychological research on chronic pain and catastrophizing has uncovered three types of mechanisms related to catastrophizing

How to Overcome Catastrophizing

You have to catch yourself having cognitive distortions to be able to do anything about them.

Consider Other Possible Outcomes

Consider positive predictions, neutral predictions, and mildly negative predictions, not just very negative predictions.

Make a Distinction Between "Significantly Unpleasant" and "Catastrophe" The key to overcoming catastrophizing is making a distinction between something being significantly unpleasant and it being a catastrophe. Failing an important exam would be extremely distressing, but it does not doom the individual to a life of failure.
Increase your perception of your ability to cope.

If you believe you can cope with negative events, anxiety will be much less of a problem for you.

Types of Catastrophizing

The common types of catastrophes people tend to imagine include:

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Alice Boyes, Ph.D., translates principles from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and social psychology into tips people can use in their everyday lives.

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This article is part of the Bringwise Psychology Journal — daily insights on human behavior, mental health, and personal growth.