When people feel stressed, they naturally reach for whatever brings quick comfort. Everyone wants relief. Some habits do help for a moment: a distraction, a small escape, or a calming routine. But a few common stress-relief behaviours can slowly add more pressure rather than reducing it. They may feel soothing today but create bigger emotional weight tomorrow. Here are six habits many people rely on, why they seem helpful at first, how they can backfire, and what healthier coping options might look like instead.

Overthinking every detail

Someone under stress may believe that thinking harder will bring clarity. They replay conversations, imagine outcomes, and try to predict what might go wrong. It feels like preparing or problem-solving. But, overthinking often leads to mental exhaustion.

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