Catastrophizing is a habitual pattern of thought that involves imagining the worst-case scenario and exaggerating negative outcomes, often leading to anxiety and stress. In the context of dependent origination, catastrophizing can be seen as the result of ignorance, mental formations, consciousness, name and form, the six sense bases, contact, feeling, craving, clinging, becoming, birth, and ultimately, old age and death.

To break the cycle of catastrophizing, one must address each point in the Twelve Nidanas and cultivate mindfulness and positive mental formations. This can involve developing awareness of the temporary nature of the triggering situation, reframing negative thoughts, practicing meditation or mindfulness techniques, reducing physical tension and emotional agitation, practicing compassionate communication, cultivating a mindful relationship with negative emotions, recognizing the desire for control and relief from suffering, developing detachment towards catastrophic thoughts, promoting positive mental formations, developing a sense of acceptance and compassion towards the manifestation of negative thoughts and emotions, and recognizing the potential for negative thought patterns to perpetuate suffering.

By recognizing the interdependent nature of reality and working to break the cycle of negative thought patterns, individuals can achieve greater peace and freedom from suffering.