Chatter: The Voice in Our Head

Psychologist Ethan Cross discusses the phenomenon of chatter, which refers to getting stuck in a negative thought loop that creates distress. Chatter can interfere with thinking, performance, social relationships, and physical health. One strategy to manage chatter is distance self-talk, where individuals use their own name and second person pronouns to give themselves advice and shift their perspective. Another strategy is temporal distancing, which involves considering how they will feel about the problem in the future to provide hope and perspective. Seeking support from others who can provide empathic listening and help broaden perspective is also beneficial. Rituals can divert attention from chatter, create a sense of control, and enhance social connection. These tools can help individuals manage their chatter and minimize its impact in their lives.