Why We Keep Taking the Same “Wrong Turns” – And What That Teaches Us About Mental Health
By Katherine Kessler
Our brains are wired to follow familiar paths, even when those paths don’t serve us. Recently, I left a place I visit often and, without thinking, made the same wrong turn I’ve made the last few times. It hit me right away—my brain was just following what had become familiar. By repeating the mistake, I’d unintentionally trained my mind to choose that route. That moment stuck with me because, the truth is, our brains do this all the time—not just with roads, but also with thoughts, emotions, and choices.
The Brain Loves Familiar Paths
The human brain is designed for efficiency. It likes patterns, shortcuts, and routines. When we repeat something, whether that’s driving a route, reacting to stress, or dwelling on a negative thought, we strengthen the neural pathway behind it.
Over time, the brain takes that path automatically. Even if it’s not the one we want to take.
Wrong Turns in Mental Health
This is why anxiety feels like the same cycle of worry.
It’s why depression can feel like being pulled back into the same heaviness.
It’s why past trauma can replay in the present, even when we want to move forward.
These aren’t signs of weakness. They’re signs of the brain doing what it does best, choosing the familiar.
The Hopeful Truth: Neuroplasticity
A well-worn path in the brain isn’t permanent. New directions are always possible.
Through neuroplasticity, the brain can form new pathways. That means healthier thoughts, new ways of responding, and even freedom from old loops that once felt permanent.
How Scenic City Neurotherapy Helps
At Scenic City Neurotherapy, we specialize in treatments that support neuroplasticity, including Minimally Stimulated Ketamine Infusion Therapy (MSKIT®) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). These treatments help the brain become more flexible, making it possible to “reroute” and build pathways that lead to healing.
Our patients often describe it as finally getting unstuck, like realizing there’s a better road forward and having the ability to take it.
So, the next time you find yourself making the same wrong turn, in your car or in your mind, remember: it doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means your brain has been following what it knows. And with the right support, it can learn a new way.
If you’ve been stuck taking the same mental turn, we’re here to help. Learn more about how we support patients in creating new pathways to health and growth.
New To Scenic City Neurotherapy? Start Here: https://sceniccityneurotherapy.com/sceniccityneuro-com-start-here/
About Scenic City Neurotherapy
Founded in 2019, Scenic City Neurotherapy is at the forefront of advanced and comprehensive treatments for those facing treatment-resistant conditions. Our mission is to optimize brain function and elevate well-being through cutting-edge therapies. We specialize in two pioneering approaches: Minimally Stimulated Ketamine Infusion Therapy (MSKIT®) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
If you are exploring innovative solutions for mental health, chronic pain, and other neuro-degenerative conditions, Scenic City Neurotherapy offers transformative treatment options. Join us in leading the charge towards groundbreaking brain optimization treatments and empowering individuals to reclaim their lives.
Contact Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Charles Miller today to learn more about our proven protocols for Minimally Stimulated Ketamine Infusion Therapy (MSKIT®). Call 423-228-0579 or visit www.ScenicCityNeuro.com.
