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Nov 2023
31m 23s

Episode 373: Overcoming Overthinking

Robert Duff, Ph.D.
About this episode

Hey everyone! Hope you're finding moments of peace amidst the chaos.

Today's episode peels back the layers of anxiety that can really twist our brains into knots. We're responding to a heartfelt question from a listener who's finding themselves in a tangle of overthinking, especially when it comes to new relationships.

Unraveling the Anxiety Knot:

  • We've all been there, so let's talk about overthinking, anxiety, and how they team up to throw us for a loop.
  • I'm rolling out some practical tips that come from both personal battles and professional strategies to help ease that mental gridlock.

Mindfulness: More Than Just Zen:

  • We're distinguishing between kicking back for relaxation and the active practice of mindfulness. It's all about focusing your thoughts, not just deep breathing.
  • I'll guide you on how to navigate through your brain's maze and dodge those cognitive booby traps.

Self-Compassion: Your Secret Weapon:

  • It's super important to remember to be gentle with yourself. Struggling with overthinking is common, and it's okay not to have all the answers.
  • Keeping busy can be a good distraction from ruminating thoughts, and sometimes, a little distraction is exactly what we need.
  • Don't shy away from asking for an outsider's perspective. Friends, family, or a therapist can provide that valuable reality check.

Big Picture Perspective:

  • Keep in mind, this too shall pass. The worries that seem mountainous today are often just pebbles on the path of life.
  • Life's a wild ride, and it's not meant to be spent in a constant state of worry. You're capable, and you've got a whole community here rooting for you.

Got a question you're itching to ask? Drop me a line at duffthepsych@gmail.com. And for a deeper dive into today's topic, check out the detailed show notes over at http://duffthepsych.com/episode373. Stay safe, and see you in the next episode!

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If you need an amazing gift that will make everyone ask where you got it, check out the wide variety of unique products over at http://uncommongoods.com/duff 

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