6 Signs You’re Mentally Overstimulated (And What to Do About It)

We often talk about burnout and stress, but less about mental overstimulation—that wired-but-tired state where your brain won’t stop scrolling even when your body’s begging to stop. It doesn’t always show up dramatically. Sometimes it’s subtle, persistent, and quietly exhausting. Here’s how to spot the signs—and what can help.

1. You Keep Skimming, Not Reading

Whether it’s articles, emails, or text messages, your brain starts skimming everything. You take in fragments, not full thoughts. Your concentration fades fast.

Try this: Slow your input. Pick one source of information (a book, a podcast, a playlist) and engage with it fully, without switching tabs or apps.

2. Silence Feels Uncomfortable

If quiet moments—like walking without headphones or sitting without background noise—make you feel twitchy, your nervous system may be overstimulated.

Try this: Schedule just 5–10 minutes of no input time daily. Let silence become neutral again, not awkward.

3. You Can’t Decide What to Do Next

Too many tabs open (literally and mentally)? Overstimulation often mimics indecision. You bounce between options, start things you don’t finish, or freeze altogether.