Life can be overwhelming at times. ⠀ It’s easy to get caught up in our own thoughts and start over thinking. ⠀ One type of overthinking is known as: catastrophizing. This is when your thoughts get caught up in the exaggerated version of “worse-case scenario” and the “what if” questions. It honestly feels so real and so plausible, even when it’s not. ⠀ There are many ways to deal with unhelpful thought-patterns, also called “cognitive distortions” in CBT. One of the ways I use with clients is to “follow the what-if”. By questioning the validity and extent of the anxious thoughts, you can help yourself come to a few conclusions: 1. Recognizing that your anxious thoughts are not as realistic as it feels. You’ll be able to see that your catastrophizing thoughts are making you anxious. 2. Identifying the stories (or core beliefs) you believe to be true that are keeping you stuck in anxiety. ⠀ Once you’re able to do this, you can talk yourself through the overthinking moment. I would encourage you to practice body-regulation too, such as deep breathing or stretching. ⠀ While this won’t make your anxiety go away at it’s root, it will help you feel more empowered on your self-management and emotional-regulation skills. ⠀ I explore human emotional experiences and help people feel more empowered in their emotional health. To learn more, follow along @well.guide ⠀ Note: This is an “in the moment” technique for managing worry/overthinking, not a treatment for anxiety or panic disorders. ⠀ #overthinking #bepresent #peaceofmind #cbttools #emotionalregulation #emotionalgrowth #emotionalwellbeing #emotionalhealing #selfawarenessjourney #wellguide #millennialwomen #conflictresolution #selfgrowth #selfgrowthjourney #healingtools #healingtips #cbttherapy #therapytime #therapyworks #anxietyrelief #anxietysucks #anxietysupport #anxietytips #anxietytools #anxiousattachment #anxiousthoughts #anxietyattacks #anxietyattack #therapytips #therapytools