Concern-induced negative affect is associated with the occurrence and content of mind-wandering

► We examine whether the affective response to a future-related concern is related to subsequent mind-wandering episodes. ► Increases in negative affect following concern induction predict the general frequency of mind-wandering episodes. ► More frequent mind-wandering about the induced future concern is related to the maintenance of negative affect over time. ► Emotions are an important factor to be considered in the relationship between future-related concerns and mind-wandering.