The Mental Health Today Show

Why Saying ”What If” Can Be Harmful To Your Mental Health

08.08.2022 - By John CordrayPlay

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Why Saying "What If" Can Be Harmful To Your Mental HealthThinking outside the box is only beneficial when you focus on your positive thoughts.Overthinking the negative is harmful to your mental health.John shares the detrimental effects of assuming the worst-case scenarios. While it’s normal to sometimes look ahead - especially when you’re making tough decisions or when you are welcoming significant changes in your life – it’s best to acknowledge that the future has not happened yet and it’s not worth stressing over.Your thoughts influence your feelings and they also have an impact on your behavior. When you find yourself in stressful situations, assessing your thoughts can help you overcome negative prospects and possibilities. Your thoughts need to be rooted in truth and not assumptions. Focus on the positive outcomes and be open to people who are willing to help you.[Timecodes][0:00] Why is saying “What if?” bad for your mental health?[2:03] So many people bear the “What if” mindset.[4:18] Everything starts with your thoughts.[5:47] Thinking outside the box is normal.[6:53] What is the “Grass is greener” syndrome?[7:58] What are the negative effects of thinking this way?[10:56] What if the thought is actually rooted in truth?[14:35] You can’t shut people out because it’s not healthy for you.[16:27] Ask yourself these three questions that help you address these thoughts.[20:48] What if something good happens?[24:00] Focus on good thoughts.[25:10] Reach out to John.Rate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here  www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new.  Your review will really help the show reach more people - thank you!Reach out to John Cordray: www.johncordray.comDisclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as therapy. If you are seeking therapy, please contact a licensed therapist for help.Smells Like HumansLike listening to funny friends discuss curious human behavior.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new . Disclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as therapy. If you are seeking therapy, please contact a licensed therapist for help.

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