Study Finds Worrying May Be Linked to Higher Intelligence

If you tend to overthink or worry often, science suggests it might actually be a sign of higher intelligence.

A study published in Frontiers in Evolutionary Neuroscience found that individuals with generalized anxiety disorder scored higher on IQ tests compared to participants without the condition.

Researchers believe this connection may be due to advanced verbal intelligence and sharper problem-solving skills — traits that likely evolved as survival mechanisms, helping early humans anticipate threats and navigate challenges.

While chronic stress and overthinking can feel overwhelming, the findings support the idea that worrying is sometimes a reflection of enhanced cognitive ability rather than a weakness.