The Psychology Behind Overthinking - Ms.PAVITHRA S / I B.Sc Psychology / PG Department of Psychology / MKJC(A).

                                      The Psychology Behind Overthinking

What is Overthinking?

Overthinking means thinking about something too much or for too long. It’s when your mind keeps going in circles  analyzing, worrying, and imagining all the “what ifs,” even when there’s no real problem in front of you.

As a psychology student, you’ll know it closely relates to rumination (dwelling on the past) and worry (thinking too much about the future).

 Why Do We Overthink?

1. Fear of the Unknown

We don’t like not knowing what will happen. So, we try to figure out the future in our heads — but most of the time, we just end up worrying even more.

2. Low Self-Confidence

If you don’t trust yourself or your choices, you might keep second-guessing everything — like, “Did I do the right thing?” or “What if I made a mistake?”

3. Trying to Be Perfect

When you always want to do things perfectly, even small decisions feel huge. That pressure makes your brain go into overthinking mode.

4. Bad Experiences in the Past

If something went wrong before — like you failed at something or got embarrassed — your brain remembers it and tries to “protect” you from it happening again. So, it overthinks to avoid that pain.

5. Comparing Yourself to Others

Looking at what others are doing (especially on social media) can make you feel like you’re not good enough, which leads to more overthinking.

 

How to Stop Overthinking

 1. Set a “Worry Time”

Give yourself 10–15 minutes a day to think about whatever’s on your mind. After that, stop and tell yourself, “That’s enough thinking for today.”

 2. Question Your Thoughts

Don’t believe everything your brain tells you. Ask yourself:

• Is this really true?

• What proof do I have?

• What’s the worst that could happen — and can I handle it?

3. Stay in the Present

Try doing something that helps you stay in the moment — like deep breathing, going for a walk, drawing, or journaling. These help your mind slow down.

 4. Take Small Actions

Sometimes, we overthink because we don’t know what to do next. Even a small step — like making a list or talking to someone — can help you feel better.

 5. Talk to Someone

Sharing your thoughts with a friend or family member can give you a new way of looking at things. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Final Thoughts

Overthinking is really common, especially for students. It doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you — it just means your brain is trying to protect you. But you can teach it to calm down.

“Overthinking ends where awareness begins.”

A Blog by

Ms. PAVITHRA S

I B.Sc Psychology

PG Department of Psychology

Marudhar Kesari Jain College for Women (Autonomous)

Vaniyambadi