What is overthinking a symptom of?

Overview

Overthinking is something many Australians experience — whether it’s replaying a conversation, worrying about work, or stressing about the future. While it might feel like just a bad habit, overthinking is often linked to deeper issues like stress, anxiety, or past trauma. In fact, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare ¹, 1 in 5 Australians experience a mental health condition each year, and overthinking is often a key part of that struggle. Recognising the root causes of overthinking is the first step toward breaking free from the cycle and finding calm.

What exactly is overthinking?

Overthinking is when your mind gets trapped in an endless loop of excessive thoughts without leading to action or resolution. Instead of moving on, you keep replaying events or imagining ‘what ifs’. For example, you might spend hours worrying about a work presentation or over-analysing a text message.

Signs of overthinking

Overthinking can manifest in different ways for different people. Here are a few common signs:

Mental signs:

• Overanalysing past conversations or events
• Worrying about things that haven’t happened
• Constantly seeking validation or relying on others for certainty
• Difficulty making decisions
• Feeling mentally exhausted or overloaded

Physical signs:

• Headache or tension
• Restlessness or tight muscles
• Sleep difficulties and morning fatigue

How overthinking affect your body?

When you overthink, your body experiences a range of physical and emotional effects due to ongoing stress and mental tension, including:

Physical effects:

• Tension headaches
• Digestive issues like nausea or Irritable bowel symptoms
• Weakened immune system
• Muscle tightness
• Poor sleep quality

Mental effects:

• heightened anxiety or irritability
• Difficult focusing or completing tasks
• Indecisiveness or self-doubt
•  Reduced self-esteem and negative self-talk

How past experiences can lead to overthinking

Sometimes, overthinking is the mind’s way of coping with past pain or unresolved stress. Common triggers include:

• trauma or abuse
• Toxic or unstable relationships
• Loss, grief, or major life transitions such as divorce
• Experience failure or rejection
• Growing up in highly stressful or critical environment Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) , where the mind stays hypervigilant as a means of protection

Is overthinking a mental health condition?

Overthinking isn’t a mental illness on its own. But it’s often linked to conditions like anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). "Amira, a registered psychotherapist based in Canberra mentions ‘If overthinking regularly disrupts your work, relationships, or well-being, it may be a sign to seek professional support."

How do I stop overthinking as much?

You can’t silence your mind completely, but you can manage it better. Here are some simple steps:

• Challenge your thoughts- Ask yourself: Are these thoughts based on facts or assumptions?
• Give your worries a time limit- Give yourself a short worry break, then move on.
• Set boundaries- Don’t let work emails and social media control your evenings.
• Practice mindfulness- Try deep breathing or guided meditation apps.
• Write it down- Journaling brings clarity.
• Take small actions- Break complex tasks into small steps to make progress easier
• Stay active- Go for a walk, play sport, or catch up with friends to shift focus.

How Hola Health can help

If overthinking is disrupting your sleep, work, or relationships, take action before it worsens. You can consult your GP about a Medicare-subsidised mental health treatment plan. This can include:

• Up to 10 rebated sessions with a psychologist each year
• Bulk-billing options for eligible patients
• Referrals to suitable professionals, even in rural or remote areas.

With Hola Health, you can book a telehealth consultation with a GP from anywhere in Australia. If required, they can help you get a mental health plan and refer you to a psychologist or counsellor.

Conclusion

Overthinking is common, but you don’t have to stay stuck in the cycle. By understanding the causes, using practical tools, and seeking support when needed, you can regain control of your thoughts. If overthinking is affecting your daily life, Hola Health doctors are here to support you. Book a consult today and take the first step toward mental clarity and peace.