Here are some methods to help change the channel and escape the downward thought spiral:

The intellectual roots of critical thinking are as ancient as its etymology, traceable, ultimately, to the teaching practice and vision of Socrates 2,500 years ago who discovered by a method of probing questioning that people could not rationally justify their confident claims to knowledge.

The six thinking hats is a tool to boost the productivity of creative thinking by dividing up the different styles of thinking into six “hats”: logic, emotion, caution, optimism, creativity, and control. Each person, or team, takes on the role of a hat, ensuring that all viewpoints and styles are covered.

1. Take a step back.
2. Accept your thoughts.
3. Draw on past experiences.
4. Use a reinforcing statement.
5. Change your anxiety routine.
6. Try mindfulness.
7. Breathe.
8. Journal or start a diary.

All thoughts are temporary, and most of them aren’t universally true. Although this can seem sad or uncomfortable, in reality it’s empowering. This principle gives you the power to take control of how you respond to your thoughts as you go through life.

The link between overthinking and mental health problems is a chicken-or-egg type question. Overthinking is linked to psychological problems, like depression and anxiety. It’s likely that overthinking causes mental health to decline and as your mental health declines, the more likely you are to overthink.

Overthinking is destructive and mentally draining. It can make you feel like you’re stuck in one place, and if you don’t act, it can greatly impact on your day-to-day life. It can quickly put your health and total well-being at risk. Rumination makes you more susceptible to depression and anxiety.

Sometimes, things can get more complicated if you have the tendency to overthink every little thing. This holds true for problems in your love life as well. Well, the truth is that overthinking only does more damage than good to your relationship. …

Physical signs include:

1. headaches.
2. muscle aches.
3. chest pain.

Research shows that overreacting, constantly worrying, and living in a state of perpetual anxiety can reduce life expectancy. 1 If this describes your typical response to everyday setbacks and snafus, it may pay in the very, very long run to learn ways to lighten up and lower stress.

But when we experience too much stress for long periods of time, it can have the opposite effect, and we may begin to notice the physical effects of stress. Our bodies may shut down due to the effects of stress on the body. We may get sick, fatigued, or develop mental health issues.

Toxic stress occurs when a child is exposed to a traumatic situation—like violence, abuse, neglect, extended hospitalization or a divorce, for example—without adequate parental or caregiver support.