Overthinking in clients can show up in different forms, such as replaying past mistakes, worrying about future “what ifs,” or repeatedly focusing on social situations. Research shows that these thought patterns are linked to higher levels of anxiety and can interfere with a child’s daily functioning.
The 5 Types of Overthinking handout presents the different ways overthinking can appear, including rumination, catastrophizing, and future worrying. As clients read through each type, they may start to identify their own thought patterns. Each section also includes a quick tip at the bottom so clients can immediately begin practicing ways to overcome these thoughts.
Kids and teens who practice coping with these patterns may begin to feel more in control. These strategies can be used as part of therapy if a child is currently receiving support, or they can be practiced in daily life at home or at school.
One helpful tip for caring adults is to listen without judgment when a child shares their thoughts, so the child feels comfortable expressing themselves openly. A related resource that you can check out is our Common Cognitive Distortions handout, which dives deeper into the thought patterns that can affect young people.
Our 7 Ways To Reduce Overthinking and Bedtime Overthinking handouts may be helpful add-ons for those who want more depth on this topic.
References:
- Rodríguez-Menchón, M., Orgilés, M., Fernández-Martínez, I., Espada, J. P., & Morales, A. (2021). Rumination, Catastrophizing, and Other-Blame: The Cognitive-Emotional Regulation Strategies Involved in Anxiety-Related Life Interference in Anxious Children. Child psychiatry and human development, 52(1), 63–76. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10578-020-00988-5
- Paulson, D. (2021, August 31). 9 tools for helping your child manage anxiety. Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/9-tools-for-helping-your-child-manage-anxiety
