Overthinking (Overthinking)

Brikena Krasniqi-Hotti

Too many, negative, insistent thoughts, that continue to resit over your head, and you can get rid of them, can bring you comfort and suffering. In some cases they may be one of the symptoms of an anxiety or depression disorder or of an accumulated stress situation.

Facing excessive thinking can be challenging, but there are some strategies that may be useful in managing this pattern of thought. Here are some advice you might try:

Know your pattern of thought: Pay attention when you tend to think hard and what moves your thinking. This can help you to become more aware of yourself and your inner world!

Challenge your thoughts: Overestimated thinking often involves negative or irrational thoughts that can cause anxiety and stress. Try to challenge these thoughts by wondering whether they are based on reality and whether there is evidence to support them.

Focus on the present moment: Overestimated thinking often involves concern about the future or the past. Try to redirect your focus at the present moment, and get involved in activities that require your full attention, such as exercise, walking, cooking, or a hobby.

Practice relaxing techniques: Relaunching techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can help reduce thinking.

Set aside time to think: Instead of constantly fighting your thoughts, set a time each day to reflect on them. This can help you feel more in control of your thoughts and reduce your tendency to think throughout the day.

Search support: Conversation with a trusted friend or family member, or seeking professional help from a therapist can also be useful in overthinking.

It is important to note that overindulgence is a process, and what works for one person may not work for another. So it is important to experiment with different strategies and find what works best for you.

If you feel overwhelmed and trapped by thoughts, in the meantime you cannot focus on your daily obligations and are in distress, start consultations with a clinical psychologist or therapist.