Overthinking in Mental Health: How to Overcome It

By Dr. Indrani Choudhury – Educator and Hypnotherapist
Indrani Choudhury Academic and Hypnotherapist

What Does Overthinking Mean?

Overthinking happens when the mind keeps returning to the same thought again and again. Instead of finding answers, it circles endlessly, leaving a person tired, confused, and emotionally heavy. For many people, this might involve choices about studies, relationships, or daily life. In global governance, where leaders and countries must make critical decisions, overthinking can cause delays, doubts, and missed opportunities.
Why Does It Happen?
In today’s uncertain world, overthinking has become more common. Some major causes include:
Too much information – Constant news, social media, and endless data overwhelm the mind.
Uncertain future – Climate change, wars, and economic crises create fear and worry.
Fear of mistakes – The desire to avoid failure leads to endless self-questioning.
Comparison with others – Measuring ourselves against others often deepens self-doubt.
What Helps Against Overthinking?
The best way to stop overthinking is to shift from thought to action. Some effective strategies are:
Focus on facts, not assumptions.
Set a time limit for thinking, then move forward.
Share concerns with others to release mental pressure.
Steps to Apply
Write down your thoughts to clear your head.
Prioritize what truly matters and set aside the rest.
Replace “What if this fails?” with “What can I do next?”
Practical Exercises
These simple practices help calm the mind:
1. Deep breathing – Slow, steady breaths relax the body and reduce stress.
2. Journaling – Putting repeating thoughts on paper gives clarity.
3. Mind mapping – Organizing scattered ideas visually creates order.
4. Meditation or prayer – Restores inner peace and strengthens focus.
How Often Does It Affect Us?
Overthinking can happen multiple times a day. It may begin with small choices like meals or clothing but can quickly expand into career worries, future plans, or even global challenges. For leaders, this cycle may prevent timely and effective decision-making.
What Do We Lose?
Overthinking drains our energy in three ways:
Mind – Reduces focus, creativity, and fresh ideas.
Body – Increases stress, poor sleep, and exhaustion.
Emotions – Leads to anxiety, sadness, and loss of peace.
Daily Practice for All
Anyone can try these steps:
Notice when thoughts keep repeating.
Pause for a few deep breaths.
Ask: “Is this thought useful?”
If not, release it and focus on action.
Turn fear into small, positive steps forward.
How Positivity Grows
When overthinking decreases, positivity naturally rises. We feel calmer, more confident, and more hopeful. In global governance, this positivity strengthens leadership, builds trust, and encourages cooperation.
Results
Clearer decisions without fear.
Improved mental and physical health.
Greater energy and confidence.
Stronger, calmer leadership.
Conclusion
Overthinking affects almost everyone—from students to world leaders. But it does not need to control us. With awareness, small exercises, and positive actions, we can manage it. Clear thinking not only improves individual lives but also supports peace, trust, and cooperation in society and governance.