Overthinking cont'd.

Is overthinking a mental disorder?

Overthinking is not a recognized mental disorder all by itself. However, research has found it’s often associated with other mental health conditions, including:



Depression

Anxiety disorders

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

One study found a two-way relationship between overthinking and other mental health issues. Hafeez calls it a “chicken-and-egg” situation: High levels of stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to overthinking. Meanwhile, overthinking may be associated with increased stress, anxiety, and depression.



Following a traumatic event, it’s also common to be hypervigilant — being on high alert for danger at all times. Some people experience hypervigilance as overthinking about potential signs of trouble. “Our brain can become ‘stuck’ in an upregulated fight-flight-freeze mode and continue scanning for threats or even perceived threats,” Foley says.

References (Example)

[1] <name>, '<title>' (online, <year>) <link>.
[2] BULB, 'Write to Earn. Read to Earn' (online, 2022) <https://www.bulbapp.io/>