Oh, this is such a good question because the Nine of Swords reversed really can go either way, sweet one.

The cards whisper that it's rarely an either/or - it's more about which direction the energy is moving. If it's near cards of movement or release (Death, Six of Swords, Star), it's usually relief finally arriving. If it's near cards of stagnation or repetition (Wheel reversed, Four of Swords), the spiral is likely still running, just under the surface now instead of keeping you up at night.

Trust your inner knowing too though. Sit with the card and notice: does your body feel lighter thinking about it, or still tight? That physical read is often more honest than any rulebook.

for me it's always been about whether the worry is actually still active or if i'm just tired from it. like reversed nine of swords for me usually means the thoughts finally lost their grip even if i'm still a little wrung out from the whole thing