When something happens or is about to happen in our life, we may lie awake at night or catch ourselves daydreaming and re-playing the scenario(s) non-stop. It could be an argument with someone at work or with a loved one. It could be an upcoming event that you anticipate might happen. It could even be something seemingly inconsequential and “not a big deal” if you described the situation to someone else. Yet, you still find yourself thinking about it over and over again, seemingly unable to “just forget about it” even though you really want to stop the loop. Is this normal?
Well, it happens to a lot of us, if not everyone at some point. It's a good idea to plan things out. The alternative might be when we act on impulse, almost as if it were a knee-jerk reaction that we gave little thought to and end up regretting having done. But when we end up thinking too much for too long without any resolution or additional clarity about the situation, that can then interfere in our life in an undesirable way. For instance,
· If we stay up late at night thinking about it and it prevents us from getting restful sleep for the next day.
· If the thoughts are intrusive and reduce our attention or ability to concentrate at school or at work.
· If our motivation to tend to daily tasks wanes and end up neglected for long periods of time or
· If our interest and joy in people and things that used to bring fullness and meaning to our life begin to diminish, potentially replaced by more uncomfortable feelings.
· And if anxiety begins to pop up without ever fully easing back down or if depression starts to seep in, well, these might be signs the over-thinking is taking over in an unhealthy way that needs more support.
Check in with someone you trust. Seek help so that you are not left holding this burden alone.