Overthinking seems to be a very common phenomenon in modern times, with a steep increase in the COVID-era. According to experts, people often feel trapped by their own thoughts while trying to find a way to control the situation, which often leads to overthinking.

Here are five steps you can follow to break the overthinking cycle:

1) Seek awareness

Sometimes overthinking becomes so common it starts to feel like part of your daily routine. It is essential that the individual starts to recognise that they have been caught in the cycle by themselves. Look out for repeated signs like sweaty palms and/or increased heart rate.

Also Read: ‘Anxiety, my lifelong pal’: Actor Ryan Reynolds opens up about mental health

2) Take a step back

The next step is to scrutinise the matter which has taken over your routine train of thought. In this step, try and contemplate if you have any control over the situation you are thinking about.

3) Isolate the issue

It is necessary to be sure you are only tackling one problem at once. While it is normal to have multiple things on your mind, it is more effective to take them on one at a time. A scramble of problems can not only make the process inefficient but can also completely undermine it.

Also Read: 5 tips to manage your mental health during COVID-19 Pandemic

4) Set a limit

The next step should be to give yourself an appropriate amount of time to effectively analyse the situation but after putting a clock on it. Additionally, an individual is always advised to make the best out of the situation, especially when it is beyond their control.

Also Read: 5 ways to keep the anxiety at bay during dire times

5) Planning ahead

One of the most essential steps on the list, it is important to create a roadmap for yourself that will help you resolve the situation, even if not completely. Mapping out baby steps and working towards a solution will not only help you break the overthinking cycle but is also likely to boost your confidence.