Do patients with depression tend to experience uncontrollable overthinking?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Depression affects the brain's emotional regulation functions. Patients often become trapped in self-blame over past failures, worries about the future, or repetitive thoughts about negative life events. These thoughts are difficult to stop voluntarily, and even when attempting to shift attention, individuals tend to revert easily to negative thinking patterns, thereby exacerbating feelings of anxiety and low mood, creating a vicious cycle.

Generally, individuals with depression may experience uncontrollable overthinking, often characterized by persistent negative thoughts. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek medical consultation promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Depression can impair the brain's emotional regulation functions. Patients often become trapped in self-blame for past failures, worries about the future, or repetitive rumination on negative life events. These thoughts are difficult to stop voluntarily; even when attempting to shift attention, individuals frequently revert back to negative thinking patterns, thereby exacerbating feelings of anxiety and sadness and creating a vicious cycle.

However, not all individuals with depression exhibit obvious symptoms of excessive overthinking. Some patients may primarily present with low mood, reduced interest, and decreased energy, accompanied by slowed thought processes rather than frequent intrusive or disorganized thoughts. The severity of such overthinking varies among individuals and is influenced by factors including the severity of the illness, personality traits, and personal life experiences.

If persistent negative thoughts become unmanageable and begin to affect sleep, appetite, or daily functioning, professional help should be sought promptly. Psychological therapy or medication can effectively alleviate symptoms and prevent prolonged entrapment in negative thought patterns that may hinder recovery.

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Why do I always feel anxious and afraid when facing problems?

In general, constantly feeling anxious and fearful when facing problems may be caused by factors such as neurotransmitter imbalances, lack of security, neurasthenia, generalized anxiety disorder, or cardiac neurosis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, avoid excessive overthinking when encountering stressful situations.

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How to relax yourself and avoid tension, anxiety, and overthinking

To relax and reduce tension, anxiety, and overthinking, you can generally use techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, focusing on present-moment activities, listening to calming music, and writing an emotional journal. Breathe in slowly, allowing your abdomen to rise, hold for 3–5 seconds, then exhale slowly. Repeat this process 5–8 times. By regulating your breathing rhythm, you can calm an overactive autonomic nervous system, alleviate feelings of tension, and reduce scattered thoughts.

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What causes anxiety disorder?

In general, anxiety disorders may be caused by long-term accumulation of stress, sensitive and overthinking personality traits, neurasthenia, hyperthyroidism, Parkinson's disease, or other reasons. If uncomfortable symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain a regular作息 schedule and avoid excessive fatigue; cultivate hobbies and interests to help divert attention.