Overthinking is a common issue I deal in my coaching and therapy sessions many a times. People often come to their appointments saying, I can’t relax. It’s like my brain is tired,” or “I am constantly thinking about how i dealt with a particular issue, if I could have dealt with it better, things would have been different, now I am stuck and feel guilty”
The connection between overthinking and mental health problems is undeniable. Overthinking is linked to psychological problems, like depression and anxiety. It is true that overthinking causes mental health to decline and as our mental health declines, the more likely we are to overthink. It’s a vicious downward spiral.
But, it’s difficult to point that situation when we are caught in the middle of it. In fact, our brain might try to convince us that worrying, and ruminating is helpful.
Many of us think that we develop a better solution or prevent our self from making the same mistake is, if we spend more time thinking?
That might not be true.
In fact, believe you me the opposite is often true. Analysis paralysis is a real problem. The more we think, the worse we feel. And our feelings of misery, anxiety, or anger may cloud our judgment and prevent us from taking positive action.
Overthinking Types
Overthinking comes in mostly in two forms, ruminating about the past and worrying about the future.
It’s different than problem-solving. Problem-solving involves thinking about a solution. Overthinking involves dwelling on the problem.
Overthinking is also different than self-reflection. Healthy self-reflection is about learning something about yourself or gaining a new perspective about a situation. It’s purposeful.
Overthinking involves dwelling on how bad we feel and thinking about all the things we have no control over. It won’t help us develop new insight.
Recognizing, if you are an Overthinker.
When we become more aware of our tendency to overthink things, we can take steps to change. But first, we need to recognize that overthinking does more harm than good.
How to find out that we are overthinkers.
A few pointers can be-
- If you are reliving embarrassing moments in your head repeatedly.
- If you have trouble sleeping because it feels like your brain is constantly engaged.
- If you are asking too many questions starting with what if… ?
- If you are trying to overread what people really say.
- If you are worrying too much about future.
If you observe more than 2 or 3 in your day-to-day life, then you may be an overthinker.
Try to catch those thoughts, and analyze the frequency and reason behind them and focus on positives.
I am sure if we know where the problem lies half of it is dealt with, if you still require help do connect with me. Your queries are always welcomed.
Stay connected and be well.
Yours affectionately
Reenu