Are You an Overthinker? The Psychology of Repetitive Thinking

## Are You an Overthinker? Understanding Your Thinking Patterns

Overthinking is one of the most common mental health complaints in the modern world. Research by Susan Nolen-Hoeksema found it is a significant predictor of depression, anxiety, and reduced problem-solving ability.

### Two Types of Overthinking

Nolen-Hoeksema identified two primary forms: rumination (replaying past events) and worry (anticipating future events with anxiety). Most overthinkers engage in both, though many have a dominant style.

### The Neuroscience Behind Overthinking

Functional MRI studies show chronic overthinkers display increased activation in the default mode network (DMN) — the brain regions active during self-referential thinking. Research by Marcus Raichle shows that inability to downregulate DMN activity is associated with anxiety and depression.