Do you ever find yourself lost in thought, imagining all sorts of things while staring out the window or sitting quietly? Or perhaps you were working and recalled your plans for the weekend? That's called daydreaming! While it can be fun to let your mind wander, did you know that daydreaming can also affect your mental health? We spoke to Archana Singhal, Counsellor and Family Therapist, Founder, Mindwell Counsel, Delhi, who explained daydreaming and its impact on your mental health.
What is Daydreaming?
“Daydreaming is when your mind drifts away from the present moment and creates its own little world. You might imagine yourself on a tropical beach, winning an award, or even meeting your favourite celebrity. It's like a mini-movie playing in your head”, said Singhal.
According to the estimates of Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, it was found that a significant portion, ranging from 30-50%, of our cognitive engagement while awake is devoted to thoughts unrelated to our current activities or immediate surroundings.
What Causes Daydreaming?
There are many reasons why people daydream. Here are some reasons listed by Singhal:
- Sometimes it's because they're bored or not interested in what's happening around them.
- Other times, it's a way for their brain to relax and unwind after a long day.
- Some people daydream because they're anxious or worried about something.
Impact of Daydreaming on Mental Health
While daydreaming can be a fun escape, doing it too much can have some not-so-great effects on your mental health. “For example, if you're constantly daydreaming instead of paying attention in class or at work, it can make it hard to learn or get things done. You might also feel more anxious or stressed if you spend too much time worrying about things that haven't even happened yet”, highlighted Singhal.
As per the findings in the Creativity Research Journal, daydreaming and imaginative play correlate with enhanced creativity in children.
However, according to a 2022 study, adolescents who engage in daydreaming exhibit elevated symptoms of depression, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and post-traumatic stress.
Also Read: Mental Health Matters: Expert Explains Why We Overreact To Small Things And How To Deal With It?
What You Should Know
Here are some key points listed by Singhal that you should consider:
- Balance is Key: It's okay to daydream sometimes but try to find a balance. Make sure you're still living in the present and not letting your daydreams take over your life.
- Stay Grounded: Remember to stay grounded in reality. Your daydreams are like a fun vacation for your mind, but you need to come back to reality to deal with everyday responsibilities.
- Mindfulness Helps: Practising mindfulness can help you stay focused on the present moment. Try activities like deep breathing or meditation to bring your mind back to the here and now.
- Seek Support if Needed: If you find that daydreaming is interfering with your daily life or causing distress, don't hesitate to seek support from a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.
Bottomline
Singhal concluded, “Daydreaming can be a fun and harmless activity, but it's important to be mindful of how much time you spend lost in your thoughts. By finding a balance and staying present at the moment, you can help protect your mental health and live a happier, more fulfilling life.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you have any health issues for proper diagnosis and treatment.]