Breaking the Stigma: Is Talking to Yourself Unusual?
You converse with friends, family, colleagues, and even your pets—but what about yourself? Talking to yourself often carries a negative connotation, with many associating it with instability or odd behavior. But is this perception really necessary?
In reality, self-talk is not only normal but can also be beneficial. Scientists and mental health experts suggest that talking to yourself can support emotional well-being, boost problem-solving abilities, and even reduce stress.
The Science of Self-Talk: Emotional and Cognitive Benefits
Calming Your Nerves
When you’re in an uncomfortable situation, whispering calming thoughts to yourself—like “It’s going to be okay” or “I’ve got this”—can lower stress levels. This simple act helps soothe your nerves and create a sense of control.
Enhancing Focus and Recognition
Self-talk can also improve recognition speed and efficiency. For example, verbally announcing what you’re searching for—such as saying “keys” while looking—can help your brain process and locate the item faster, as research indicates.
Reframing Problems to Find Solutions
Struggling with a tricky question or issue? Talking to yourself can be like hitting the “refresh” button on your thought process. Speaking the problem aloud stimulates your brain to reconsider variables, potentially rephrasing the question in a way that uncovers the solution. Whether spoken or written down, self-talk helps clarify and resolve complex problems.
Building Confidence in Children Through Self-Talk
For children, self-talk isn’t just normal—it’s beneficial. Dr. Adam Winsler of George Mason University found that kindergartners who talk to themselves are often more confident and perform better in class discussions.
Self-talk allows children to reflect on problems, learn from their actions, and gain perspective on their challenges. Dr. Winsler suggests that parents and educators should actively encourage children to embrace self-discussion as a healthy and productive habit.
Why Private Discussion Shouldn’t Be Feared
Whether it’s boosting your confidence with a simple “You can do it!” or verbalizing a puzzling scenario to gain clarity, self-talk can serve various purposes. Far from being a sign of instability, it can be an essential tool for mental well-being, focus, and self-improvement.
Support for Your Mental Health
If self-talk is part of your mental health journey, professional support can complement your efforts.
Pasadena Villa offers intensive psychiatric residential treatment for adults with serious mental illnesses. Additional services include step-down residential programs, supportive housing, day treatment programs, and life skills training.
If you or someone you know may need mental health support, please contact our admissions team.
