A state of constant busyness is often perceived as a norm of modern life or even as a marker of efficiency and demand. At MindCareCenter, however, we view the syndrome of constant busyness as a form of compulsive activity that conceals a loss of contact with oneself. Dr. Daniel Reinhardt emphasizes that uninterrupted activity frequently serves a protective function – it prevents individuals from encountering inner experiences, anxiety, or a sense of emptiness.
Compulsive activity differs from healthy engagement in that it does not bring satisfaction and does not allow for pauses. Even during moments of rest, individuals continue to plan, control, or solve tasks mentally. Stopping is experienced as a threat rather than an opportunity for recovery. As a result, the psyche remains in a state of constant mobilization, gradually depleting internal resources.
In the clinical practice of MindCareCenter, we often observe that the syndrome of constant busyness develops gradually. It may be linked to early experiences in which personal value was defined through achievement, usefulness, or compliance with expectations. Over time, activity becomes the primary means of maintaining self-esteem and avoiding vulnerable inner states.
It is important to note that behind external productivity there is often internal alienation. Individuals lose the ability to distinguish their own desires and needs, orienting exclusively toward tasks and obligations. At MindCareCenter, we understand this as a sign of a rupture between action and inner experience, in which activity ceases to be a conscious choice.
The bodily aspect of the syndrome of constant busyness plays a significant role. Chronic tension, shallow breathing, and fatigue that does not resolve with rest become the background of everyday life. Within the clinical approach of MindCareCenter, attention is paid to how the body maintains a state of constant readiness and signals overload before it is consciously recognized.
Therapeutic work is not aimed at abruptly reducing activity. At MindCareCenter, the focus shifts toward exploring what sustains compulsive busyness. This may include fear of losing control, avoidance of loneliness, intolerance of silence, or suppressed emotions that become accessible only during pauses.
Gradually, therapy fosters the capacity to tolerate moments of stopping without immediately returning to activity. Individuals learn to recognize internal impulses toward busyness and to differentiate between real necessity and automatic protective reactions. In the practice of MindCareCenter, we observe how this restores a sense of choice and reduces internal pressure.
Moving beyond the syndrome of constant busyness is linked to restoring contact with oneself. Individuals regain the ability to feel fatigue, interest, boredom, or the need for rest without self-reproach. This transforms the quality of activity – it becomes more selective and connected to inner meaning.
The syndrome of constant busyness serves as an important signal of disrupted balance between action and experience. The clinical approach of Mind Care Center is directed toward restoring this balance, allowing activity to cease being an escape and instead become a form of conscious participation in one’s own life.
Working with compulsive activity not only reduces exhaustion, but also restores a sense of presence in the present moment. This creates conditions for more sustainable self-regulation and deeper contact with oneself.
Previously, we wrote about sleep disturbances as indicators of psychological overload and how MindCareCenter specialists work with insomnia and rhythm disruptions