Characteristics of an Overthinker
Overthinking—it’s something many of us do without even realizing it. At first, it might seem harmless. You’re replaying a conversation, analyzing a decision, or imagining future scenarios. But over time, these thought patterns can become exhausting, keeping you stuck in a cycle of worry and doubt. Overthinking isn’t just “thinking a lot.” It’s when your mind spirals into constant analysis that feels impossible to turn off. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re an overthinker, you’re not alone. Many young adults, especially those navigating big transitions like college, jobs, or relationships, find themselves caught in this mental trap. Recognizing the signs of overthinking is the first step toward regaining control. And if you feel stuck, working with a young adult therapist in Illinois can help you break free and create space for peace of mind.
You Second-Guess Every Decision 
Do you find yourself agonizing over even the simplest decisions? Overthinkers tend to analyze choices so deeply that making a decision feels impossible. Something as small as deciding what to order for lunch or which route to take to class can spiral into a lengthy internal debate. This “decision paralysis” often stems from a fear of making the wrong choice, no matter how insignificant.
For example, you might spend 15 minutes deciding between two nearly identical notebooks, only to walk away empty-handed because you can’t commit. Over time, this constant second-guessing can leave you feeling drained. If decision-making feels overwhelming, therapy for young adults in Chicago and Evanston, IL can help you identify what’s holding you back and learn strategies to move forward with confidence.
You Replay Conversations in Your Head
Have you ever walked away from a conversation, only to replay it in your mind for hours or even days? Overthinkers often fixate on what they said—or didn’t say—during interactions, imagining how others might interpret their words. For example, you might obsess over a small mistake during a class presentation, worrying that everyone noticed and judged you for it. The reality? Most people likely didn’t think twice about it. But in the moment, it’s hard to let go of the fear that you’ve somehow messed up. If this sounds familiar, know that overthinking these scenarios can take a toll on your self-confidence. Learning to challenge these patterns through tools like cognitive behavioral therapy in Chicago, IL can help you reframe these thoughts and regain control over how you see yourself.
You Constantly Worry About “What If” Scenarios
“What if I fail this class?” “What if they don’t like me?” “What if I make the wrong choice and ruin everything?” Overthinkers often dwell on hypothetical “what if” situations, creating worst-case scenarios that rarely come true. While some amount of planning and preparation is healthy, overthinking takes it to another level, stealing your ability to enjoy the present moment.
For instance, if you’re preparing for a big internship interview, you might spend more time worrying about all the things that could go wrong than actually preparing. This cycle of fear can make you feel stuck and unmotivated. If overthinking is getting in the way of your goals, consider working with a young adult therapist in Illinois. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore these fears and develop tools to manage them effectively.
You Struggle to “Turn Off” Your Thoughts
Overthinkers often describe their minds as being “on overdrive.” Whether it’s lying in bed unable to sleep or zoning out during class because your thoughts are racing, it can feel impossible to slow down. You may find yourself jumping from one worry to the next without resolution, leaving you feeling mentally and physically drained. These patterns can lead to burnout, especially for young adults juggling academics, work, and social commitments. Therapists often recommend mindfulness techniques, which can help you focus on the present moment instead of getting caught up in spiraling thoughts. Paired with therapy for young adults, mindfulness can be a powerful tool for finding calm in your day-to-day life.
You Focus More on Problems Than Solutions 
Overthinking often traps people in a cycle of problem-focused thinking. Instead of looking for solutions, you may find yourself rehashing everything that went wrong or could go wrong. For instance, if you didn’t perform well on an exam, you might spend hours fixating on what you should have done differently instead of creating a plan to improve for the next one. This pattern can feel like mental quicksand—no matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to move forward. With support from a young adult therapist in Illinois, you can learn to shift your focus toward actionable steps, breaking free from the cycle of rumination and self-doubt.
Physical Signs of Overthinking Are Present
Overthinking doesn’t just impact your mind—it can take a toll on your body, too. The constant stress of racing thoughts can lead to physical symptoms that are easy to ignore but hard to escape. Some common physical signs of overthinking include:
- Headaches
- Muscle tension
- Trouble sleeping
- Digestive issues
- Changes in appetite
For example, you might notice stomachaches every time you think about an upcoming exam or find yourself clenching your jaw during particularly stressful moments. These physical signs are your body’s way of telling you it’s time to slow down and address what’s going on beneath the surface. Cognitive behavioral therapy in Chicago, IL can help you understand how your thoughts are affecting your body and teach you healthier ways to cope with stress.
Why It’s Hard to Break the Cycle of Overthinking
Breaking the cycle of overthinking isn’t easy, especially when perfectionism, fear of failure, or external pressures like academic and social expectations keep fueling it. Overthinking often becomes a habit, making it harder to identify when it’s happening, let alone stop it. It’s not uncommon to feel stuck in patterns of constant worry, but these patterns don’t have to define your life. Therapy for young adults in Chicago and Evanston, IL, can help you uncover the underlying causes of overthinking, if you’re an overthinker, and develop practical tools to manage it. Through personalized support, you can learn to challenge unhelpful thought patterns and stay grounded in the present.
Taking the first step toward addressing overthinking can feel daunting, but it’s an investment in your mental health and overall well-being. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reaching out for help is a powerful way to regain control and move forward with confidence. You don’t have to face it alone, and with the right support, breaking free from overthinking is possible. Keep exploring resources and strategies for an overthinker to take back control and find a calmer, more focused mindset.
How Therapy Can Help Overthinkers 
Overthinking can often feel like a lonely and overwhelming experience, but it doesn’t have to be something you manage on your own. A young adult therapist in Illinois can work with you to uncover the triggers fueling your overthinking and help you recognize the thought patterns that keep you stuck. Therapy offers a supportive space to explore these habits and develop practical strategies to quiet your mind and find relief. Cognitive behavioral therapy, in particular, can be a valuable tool for an overthinker. This evidence-based approach helps you understand the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By identifying distorted or unhelpful thinking patterns, you can learn to challenge and reframe them in healthier ways. With time and practice, therapy can give you the skills to step out of the cycle of overthinking and move forward with more clarity and confidence.
Finding Relief from Overthinking with Therapy for Young Adults in Chicago and Evanston, IL
Overthinking can feel like a constant battle, but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’re tired of feeling stuck in a cycle of rumination and worry, therapy for young adults in Chicago and Evanston, IL, can offer the support and tools you need to break free. Through individualized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, you can find relief from overthinking and move forward with more clarity and peace.. At Evanston Counseling, we understand the unique challenges young adults face and are here to help you navigate them with confidence. Our therapists are experienced in working with young adults and provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and emotions. We also offer a range of online therapy options, making it easier than ever to prioritize your mental health. If you’re ready to take the first step toward a calmer, more focused mindset follow the steps below:
- Reach out to schedule a free consultation.
- Speak with an experienced young adult therapist.
- Find relief from overthinking and discover new ways to manage stress!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Evanston Counseling in Evanston, Chicago, and throughout Illinois
At Evanston Counseling, we go beyond offering Therapy for College Students in Chicago and Evanston, IL. We provide a variety of therapy services designed to support you on your mental health journey. Our offerings include Therapy for Moms, Therapy for Teenagers, and Therapy for Young Adults. We help individuals facing challenges such as Anxiety, Depression, and Chronic Pain and GI Distress. Our approach includes diverse therapeutic modalities like Hypnotherapy, Pet Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ensuring personalized care to meet your unique needs. Contact us today to explore how we can help you manage overthinking and work toward a calmer, more fulfilling life.
