You’re a caring, devoted parent, and you’ve likely discovered how challenging it is when your child gets stuck in those “what if” loops. Surprisingly, your logical explanations and reassurances frequently enough increase their anxiety.
What Actually Is Overthinking?
Overthinking, often called rumination, is when kids get trapped in repetitive, unproductive thought loops fueled by anxiety. Rumination usually focuses on the past,but overthinking covers both past and future worries.
This means kids might get stuck choosing a test answer,struggling to talk to someone,or debating joining an activity. These worry storms feel distressing, but they’re a normal part of a child or teen’s reasonable thinking about everyday situations.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is different. OCD involves intrusive, upsetting thoughts that require a different approach, typically exposure and response prevention therapy.
PACE to the Rescue
From my work with overthinking children and teens, I use a four-word acronym with parents to he
