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Every Friday on The Verywell Mind Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Amy Morin, LCSW, shares the “Friday Fix”—a short episode featuring a quick, actionable tip or exercise to help you manage a specific mental health issue or concern.

Friday Fix: Episode 196

There are many things that can clutter your mind—worrying about the future, rehashing the past, second-guessing your decisions, and thinking about how you’re being perceived.

Maybe you’re having dinner with a friend and all you can think about is your to-do list. Or perhaps it takes 30 minutes to send an email because you keep questioning how to word each sentence.

All of those thoughts running through your head make it difficult to concentrate on what’s in front of you right now. Those cluttered thoughts can also make it difficult to enjoy the moment.

There are several reasons why our brains feel cluttered sometimes. Depression can cause us to ruminate on the past. Anxiety can cause you to worry about the future. Traumatic experiences can cause you to always be on the lookout for danger. 

Regardless of the reason, it’s tough to feel mentally strong when your brain is filled with thoughts that aren’t helpful.

But a diagnosable mental health condition isn’t always the culprit. Having a stressful life or a busy day can also lead to repetitive and unhelpful thoughts.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to manage your thoughts in a helpful way. In this episode of The Verywell Mind Podcast, I share three strategies that can declutter your mind today. They’re simple but effective strategies you can start implementing right now.

More About the Podcast

The Verywell Mind Podcast is available across all streaming platforms. If you like the show, please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts.

Editor’s Note: Please be mindful that this transcript does not go through our standard editorial process and may contain inaccuracies and grammatical errors. Thank you.

For media or public speaking inquiries, contact Amy here.

Download the Transcript

Reviews and ratings are a great way to encourage other people to listen and help them prioritize their mental health too.

If You Liked This Episode You Might Also Like These Episodes:

Links and Resources

  • Follow Amy Morin on Instagram

  • Check out Amy’s books on mental strength

  • How to Detox Your Thoughts With Psychologist Andrea Bonior

  • Friday Fix: How to Respond to Unhelpful Thoughts

  • How to Unwind Your Anxiety With Neuroscientist Dr. Jud Brewer