Is schizophrenia caused by overthinking?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Baohua

Introduction

Overthinking" is usually a normal mental process involving contemplation or worry, typically under voluntary control and related to real-life situations; symptoms can be relieved by adjusting one's mindset. In contrast, schizophrenia involves abnormalities in perception, thinking, behavior, and other areas, such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. These symptoms are beyond voluntary control, severely detached from reality, and cannot simply be explained by "overthinking.

Generally speaking, schizophrenia is not caused by "thinking too much." Its onset is associated with multiple factors such as genetics, neurobiology, and environment, rather than simply excessive psychological rumination. If you have concerns, it is recommended to seek medical consultation early. The detailed explanation is as follows:

"Thinking too much" typically refers to normal mental processes involving contemplation or worry, which are usually controllable and related to real-life situations, and can be relieved by adjusting one's mindset. In contrast, schizophrenia involves abnormalities in perception, thinking, behavior, and other areas—such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking—that are beyond voluntary control and significantly detached from reality, and thus cannot be explained merely as "thinking too much."

The pathogenesis of schizophrenia is complex, possibly involving a genetic predisposition combined with imbalances in neurotransmitters, structural brain abnormalities, or environmental factors such as childhood trauma or stressful life events. It is a serious mental illness that requires professional medical intervention for management, rather than being simplistically attributed to "thinking too much."

If you notice yourself or someone else exhibiting symptoms suggestive of schizophrenia, it is important to seek timely evaluation at a professional healthcare facility. Misinterpreting these symptoms as mere "overthinking" may lead to delayed treatment. Once diagnosed, patients should follow medical advice for standardized treatment, while receiving understanding and support from others to help stabilize their condition.

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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.