If you often find yourself replaying conversations in your head, stressing over a one-word reply from your senior, or spending 20 minutes deciding what to eat, you’re not alone. A new nationwide study by Center fresh and YouGov reveals just how much overthinking has become part of daily life in India, not just during big decisions, but even in the smallest everyday choices.
The first-of-its-kind Center fresh India Overthinking Report found that 81 per cent of Indians spend more than three hours a day overthinking, and one in four admit it’s practically a constant habit. From WhatsApp messages to Instagram posts, the study shows that overthinking has become a near-universal experience across ages and cities.
Overthinking at work
Work life is a major trigger. The study revealed that a simple “Ok” from the boss can increase stress levels. In fact, 42 per cent of Indians said they immediately assume the worst when their manager sends a one-word reply. Interestingly, men (41 per cent) and women (42 per cent) were almost equally likely to panic over such messages.
Stress of ordering food
It’s not just work. The study revealed that a surprising 63 per cent of respondents confessed that deciding what to order at a restaurant feels more stressful than picking a political leader to vote for. The numbers were even higher in South India, where 69 per cent admitted to this ‘menu stress.’
Social media pressure
Social media, especially for Gen Z and millennials, is another big reason behind overthinking. The report found that 61 per cent of Indians spend more than five hours a day overthinking, much of it revolving around posting stories on Instagram or other platforms.
Questions like “Is this photo worth sharing?” or “What filter should I use?” dominate their minds. Around 59 per cent admitted to worrying about how their posts would be perceived. The anxiety doesn’t stop there as over 60 per cent of respondents said they sometimes delay viewing their friends’ stories just to avoid looking too eager, with millennials especially admitting they try to “look chill.”
Many Indians are turning to Google and AI for help
As overthinking rises among Indians, many are turning to technology for answers and reassurance. One in three respondents said they use platforms like Google or ChatGPT to decode everything from cryptic texts to deciding on a birthday gift. Only 13 per cent said they’ve never resorted to such AI tools.
The study, which surveyed students, working professionals, and self-employed people across Tier 1, 2, and 3 towns, explored overthinking across four areas: food and lifestyle, digital and social life, dating and relationships, and career decisions. It shows how technology, constant connectivity, and rising social expectations have made overthinking an everyday companion for most Indians.
Gunjan Khetan, Director – Marketing, Perfetti Van Melle India, explained the motivation behind the report: “Our aim was to decode how overthinking manifests in today’s hyper-connected world, and the insights are eye-opening. Whether it’s second-guessing a message or overanalysing a dinner choice, overthinking has quietly become an everyday habit. By spotlighting this mental clutter, the report sparks a much-needed conversation about the importance of everyday mental clarity.”
