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Attention & Memory

Racing Thoughts

Thoughts that move rapidly from one to another, sometimes feeling uncontrollable or overwhelming, making it hard to focus on any single thing.

  • “why won't my mind slow down”
  • “thoughts racing at night”
  • “can't turn off my brain”
  • “mind won't stop”

Also called mind racing, thoughts won't slow down, mental chatter, can't quiet my mind, thoughts going too fast.

Can be part of

Bipolar Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and 1 more

Not always mental health

5 other possible causes, like caffeine and stimulants

Get help if

Racing thoughts prevent sleep consistently

What it can look like

Everyday moments people describe.

Some people describe their thoughts as a radio that can't be tuned to one station, constantly jumping between frequencies.

Where it can come from

Many things can cause this. Only a clinician can tell which applies to you.

Racing Thoughts in Bipolar Disorder

Racing thoughts during manic or hypomanic episodes often feel pleasurable and creative, though overwhelming.

How clinicians describe it

  • “Flight of ideas or subjective experience that thoughts are racing”
About Bipolar Disorder

Often comes with

When to get help

  • When racing thoughts prevent sleep consistently
  • When they're accompanied by changes in energy or behavior
  • When they feel very different from your normal mental state
  • When they interfere with daily functioning
Find a psychiatristIn crisis? Call or text 988Explore other symptoms

General information about a common experience, not a diagnosis or medical advice. What you are going through may have many explanations; a qualified professional can help you understand yours. Reviewed 2025-01-15.