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when i am thinking about something, and in my thoughts, songs are playing as background music, is that anxiety?

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Final answer:

Songs playing in your thoughts isn't necessarily a sign of anxiety but could relate to persistence, an error in memory where unwanted memories recur, affecting concentration. Non-distressing repetitive thoughts, like songs stuck in your head, are generally common and not indicative of anxiety.

Step-by-step explanation:

Having songs play as background music in your thoughts does not necessarily indicate anxiety.

It could be a form of persistence, which is one of Schacter's seven memory errors. Persistence involves involuntarily recalling unwanted memories, particularly unpleasant ones that can interfere with your ability to concentrate.

If you have a song stuck in your head that's not causing distress or impairment, it's likely just a common experience known as an earworm. However, if thoughts, songs, or memories are causing you significant distress or impairment in functioning, it could be a sign of an underlying mental health issue, and seeking the advice of a professional may be beneficial.

User Shane Fulmer
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