If you sit and keep thinking about a problem for hours without coming up with a logical solution, then, yes, you are overthinking. Overthinking has become common and people do not hesitate or feel shy about accepting the title of an 'overthinker'. Although overthinking is not a mental disorder but it is a condition that one unknowingly develops and then falls into a pattern. This never-ending loop will keep on wasting your time and productive hours if you do not treat it.
According to psychologists, it can create many physical and mental problems such as dwelling on the problem rather than working to find a solution. It may lead to a lack of concentration, lack of confidence, and skewed perception. It may have negative impacts on physical health such as low energy, sleep disorders, eating problems, arouse anxiety, increase mental exhaustion, cause rumination, create confusion, feelings of irritability, fixations, or loss of interest in important events.
CitySpidey reached out to psychologist Shipra Lamba to understand how can we avoid overthinking. She says, "Overthinking is more of a way of thinking. So working on how we deal with problems and stress can help. Be more solution concentrated. Spend time planning and practising forgiveness for yourself and others. Sometimes, a problem can look like a mountain in our head, however, it becomes more manageable and less scary when put into words via writing, painting, or talking about it with family members, friends, or mental health professionals. Distractions can help, and meditation can also help. Have a fixed sleeping schedule, eat healthily and exercise.
Here are some practices which you can include in your daily routine to avoid overthinking-
Identify the cause
To solve a problem, first, you need to address the cause. Depending on the personality and unique situations of a person, the cause can be different. Overthinking could be associated with anxiety, distorted thoughts, faulty problem-solving skills, faulty stress management skills, rumination, avoidance, depression, Post-traumatic stress disorder, or certain health problems.
Fill yourself with positivity
Overthinking is thinking of hypothetical negative situations. Have control over your negative thoughts and counter them with positive reasoning. In this way, you will become a self-motivated and positive person.
Engage yourself in some other work
You overthink when you sit idle or have nothing interesting to do. Schedule your day in a way in which you don't get time to overthink. In this way, you will not get much time to sit ideal and overthink. And it will increase your productivity.
Share with your friend
Talking to a second person can make help you! When you have a different opinion on a topic you discuss and learn about the pros and cons of the problem. Talk to your trustworthy friend who can help you to find a solution and can keep you away from wasting your time overthinking.
Seek help
When the situation does not seem in control one must seek expert advice immediately. If you feel anxiety, street, fatigue, or unconscious it is advisable to a psychologist for an opinion.