To want to stop the overthinking?

[Fryeeggs]

Looking for advice on how to stop the overthinking. My mind never seems to stop. If I have a problem I think and think until I have a solution; I also overthink most things. I am a worrier by nature. Lately I mostly worried about the kids. DC1 being safe when they go to uni in September and DC2 coping with exam pressure and ups and downs of puberty.

Will CBT help? Or maybe hypnotherapy ?

That sucks OP. It's a relentless way to live. Talk therapy and/or cbd are good ideas. Have you tried any remedies such as valerian root or St John's Wort?

Thank you.

I take magnesium, omega 3, menopace, practice mindfulness and excercise. It does help; but I think I will look into therapy. Probably hypnotherapy to find the root cause to it.

I found this kicked in at perimenopause

I’ve been listening to an audiobook called The Happiness Trap - it might have some helpful advice (it’s a normal book too).

I seem to have most of the symptoms under control with the above; don’t feel as anxious but the overthinking has always been there. I noticed it is worse when I wake up.

Yes this is something I have always done. The only way to stop is to stop. When I notice I’m ruminating I imagine I’m putting the thought in a box and firmly shutting the lid. It takes a lot of work and practice. I’m not always good at it. Good luck.

Excellent, will check it out

Good tip. Thank you

It’s sucks @Fryeeggs
Set a timer and allow yourself to work on your worries for 5 mins.
Here’s a nice tool. And there’s something like circle of influence, circle of control. I’ll see if I can find it.

Look at the thought, acknowledge it but don't stare. Compartmentalise it for the next hour and throw it out of your head each time. Keep busy. These are things I try to do. I've always been a worrier. A dying relative said the one thing she would change about her life is she wished she worried less. So now I do try but admit it's not always easy. I also found gardening as a hobby and weirdly find the planting flowers and the sound of digging soil weirdly comforting and soothing. Plus it makes me so busy, I lose track of time.

I found hrt took the edge off it. It’s not gone but it’s more manageable

Thank you

That is great. Thank you

I'm sorry you feel that way. Maybe a doctor appointment to chat for advice. Best wishes