Tips To Help With Over Thinking
If you feel like the only one overthinking and worrying about things beyond your control, think again. According to research, 73% of 25-35-year-olds and 52% of people aged 45-55 chronically overthink.
Overthinking can be an exhausting and frustrating experience that affects many people. You become consumed by your worries, fears, and doubts, increasing your anxiety and stress. The good news is that with practice and patience, you can develop strategies to help break free from the cycle of overthinking. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the moment without allowing judgmental thoughts or external distractions to take hold. Of course, like any skill, it will take time to practice. But with regular practice, you can learn to observe your thoughts without becoming caught up in them. This can be a powerful tool for breaking free from the cycle of overthinking.
Identify Your Triggers
Identifying your triggers is a crucial step in overcoming the habit of overthinking. Often, certain situations or thoughts can trigger overthinking. A trigger can be anything that sets off a chain reaction of thoughts in your mind, leading you to spiral into overthinking.
By identifying your triggers, you can learn to recognise when you’re starting to overthink and take steps to interrupt the cycle.
Reevaluate Negative Thoughts
When we overthink, we can become embroiled in negative thinking patterns. Reframing negative thoughts can help us break free from these patterns and develop a more positive mindset. For example, if you’re constantly worrying about what could go wrong in a situation, try reframing your thoughts by focusing on what could go right.
Set Time for Reflection
Taking time for reflection is also a great way to address overthinking. By setting aside a specific time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings, you can better understand your own thinking patterns and develop a plan for moving forward. Journaling, meditation, or even talking with a trusted friend or counsellor can help us gain clarity and perspective on our thoughts and emotions.
Get Moving
Lastly, it’s also important to take care of our physical health when dealing with overthinking. Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to overthinking. So, whether going for a walk, hitting the gym, or practicing yoga, find an activity you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine.
Seek Support
If you’re struggling with overthinking, don’t be afraid to seek support. Whether it’s talking to a trusted friend or reaching out to a therapist, there are many resources available to help you navigate this challenge.
Reach out to our therapist at Adelaide counselling practice. Our therapists can help identify negative thought patterns and develop strategies to overcome them.
