Episode 373: Overcoming Overthinking

Episode 373: Overcoming Overthinking

Author: Robert Duff, Ph.D. November 3, 2023 Duration: 31:23

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!

---

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 


Robert Duff, Ph.D., is a neuropsychologist who finds most self-help advice too sanitized to be useful. On The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych, he cuts through the fluff with a direct, science-backed approach. Each episode is built on the premise that real improvement requires honest, sometimes uncomfortable conversations. Duff brings his background in neuroscience and clinical psychology to interviews with a wide range of fascinating guests, dissecting topics from mental health struggles and relationship dynamics to the latest brain research. Listeners consistently note his skill at asking pointed questions that get to the heart of an issue, then translating complex psychological concepts into language anyone can apply. This isn't about quick fixes or vague positivity; it's a practical, evidence-based look at how our minds work and how we can work with them better. The tone is conversational and grounded, like getting actionable advice from a knowledgeable friend who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. Whether exploring anxiety, habits, or the science of motivation, this podcast delivers substance without the jargon, making professional insights accessible for everyday life. You'll find the discussions are both deeply informative and surprisingly relatable, a combination that has built a dedicated audience for Duff's unique perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Hardcore Self-Help Podcast with Duff the Psych
Podcast Episodes
Episode 393: When to Say I Love You & Numbness in Face After TBI [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 25:20
Hello friends! In today's episode, we explore the deep and complex emotions involved in expressing love within romantic relationships and the challenging path to recovery following a severe traumatic brain injury. We kic…
Episode 391: Panic Disorder & Caregiving for a TBI [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:19
Hello friends! In today's episode, we tackle two interesting questions that delve into the heart of mental and emotional challenges many of us face. First, we explore the complex world of panic disorder through the eyes…
Episode 390: Gender Identity in Therapy & Standing Up to Mom [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 35:49
Hello friends! In today's episode, we tackle two profound listener questions that may resonate with many of you: Dealing with Hurtful Family Comments: A listener is troubled by their mother's deeply hurtful comment, sugg…
Episode 387: Should I Still Talk to My Ex? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:45
Hello friends! In this episode, we delve into a deeply personal and complex question that touches on the lasting impact of past relationships, the nuances of friendship, and the boundaries within a current, happy marriag…