Don't Think Rationally Because You're Anxious, Here's How To Deal With It

Illustration of rational thinking (Pexels/Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas)

JAKARTA – Irrational thoughts or irrational thinking have a bad effect. Because irrational thinking makes you think more, criticize yourself, and make you uncomfortable. Why does one need to think rationally?

Rational thinking is more effective in getting solutions to problems. But being overly anxious, a person may not realize that he or she is spinning around in irrational ways. For example predicting future events that have not yet occurred, relying on vulnerable beliefs, and using other people as a measure.

Daniel B. Block, MD., a board-certified psychologist, says that there are many reasons why people have irrational thoughts. Reported by Verywell Mind, Monday, November 15, the most common thing that triggers the growth of irrational thoughts is anxiety.

Block adds, irrational thoughts can also be triggered by certain mental health conditions, especially anxiety disorders or psychotic disorders. People who are prone to worry, overthinking, and stress also experience adventures with irrational thoughts. Plus, people with paranoia and obsessive behavior can't be separated from irrelevant things.

Rational thinking is considered as thinking that is useful in the long term because it is based on facts, is logical, and makes sense. Meanwhile, irrational thoughts are obstacles because they are not factual. Block suggests 3 ways to manage your mind, especially when your mind is clouded by irrationality, you can do the following:

Know where the mind is going

Thoughts that are irrational or otherwise, need to be recognized or realized first. Block's advice, when you find yourself having irrational thoughts, label them by telling yourself "These are irrational thoughts."

Also keep in mind that you are not a bad person for having these thoughts. You also can't control every irrational thought that pops into your head. Most likely, recognize it, be aware of it, and push those thoughts out of your head. Accept that irrational thoughts exist. Because when you reject that thought, you give it a lot of power.

Reframing the mind

Taking notes or journaling is recommended Block. Take note of any dangerous and irrational thoughts, that way you can better identify them. Also write a constructive statement, such as "I shouldn't worry too much and I can cope" and replace it with "There are days that are better than others, but I have done my best to deal with anxiety and panic."

According to Block, the more aware of your thought processes the easier it is to change them over time.

Live a healthy lifestyle

Not much different from maintaining physical health, Block suggests adopting healthy habits such as eating healthy foods, getting enough rest, exercising, yoga, meditation, and pursuing hobbies. These activities can help a person stay away from irrational thinking and encourage self-reflection.