What is overthinking? Overthinking is nothing but having the same thoughts repeatedly.
It is also described as worrying or over analysing the situation.
It is usually symptom of anxiety disorder but often can be due to life circumstances we are facing.
A person who overthinks struggles with the same thoughts going around in a loop in their head without any relief. They may keep imagining different scenarios for the future and their consequences.
It stops them from focusing on the task at hand or enjoying the moment.
If Overthinking is not addressed it starts to result in a deterioration of physical and mental health.
It can produce physical symptoms of anxiety like sense of restlessness, increase in your heart rate, shortness of breath and easy irritability. It also leads to raised stress hormone in the body. Chronically raised stress hormone can lead to reduced immunity and myriad of lifestyle disorders like hypertension and diabetes.
Coming to the question ‘why people overthink’?
Many a times thinking about the future and imagining different scenarios allows us to solve problems. Analysing situations leads to predictions about outcomes and we can be better prepared.
However when this mechanism is constantly active then it becomes counterproductive. Instead of giving us solutions it only induces anxiety. Overthinking is also seen when there is uncertainty. If we feel unequipped to handle the future outcomes we tend to overthink trying to find solutions and ways to handle the future outcomes.
A classic example of Overthinking is when an employee hears a rumour about layoffs in office.
If the person is prone to anxiety they may start thinking- will i be fired? what if i get fired? If i get fired, how will i make rent? Will i be able to get another job? What will happen to my family? What if i am unable to get another job? What if i get fired….?
If we see, the employee has already assumed that he is fired and imagined the worst case scenario.
Now if someone was to say to him/her ” Don’t overthink it” that would be the least helpful advise to give them.
Thoughts cannot be controlled!
Asking a person to not overthink is like asking a person with asthma to stop trying to breathe.. it’s useless advise.
The way to deal with Overthinking is to first understand that the situation which is leading to anxiety is not facing us at present.
Reminding ourselves that this is how our brain deals with uncertainty, but it does not always translate into reality.
If the thoughts are too intrusive, then using worry management techniques help curb overthinking.
One such techniques is ‘delay the worry’ where we allot a worry time in our schedule and every time overthinking starts, we remind ourselves to overthink during the worry time, allowing us to focus on the task at hand.
Practicing mindfulness (not meditation) is another way of dealing with overthinking. Finally seeking help from a mental health professional allows us to manage out worries and lead a healthier happier life! Remember, overthinking is like sitting in a rocking chair, it keeps you moving but takes you nowhere!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment
