Why do we talk to ourselves in our heads? The mystery of inner speech explained

Many people experience a constant inner dialogue, a voice that comments, questions, or guides them through the day. This experience, known as inner speech or self-talk, can be helpful, neutral, or sometimes distressing depending on its tone and intensity. Scientists have long studied why humans talk to themselves and how this process shapes behaviour, emotions, and self-awareness. A recent study in Behavioural Sciences explored the complex relationships between self-talk, mindfulness, mind wandering, and self-regulation, revealing how inner speech can both support and challenge mental balance. For those who frequently find themselves caught in self-conversation, understanding why it happens can provide clarity and relief. Inner speech is a natural outcome of human development. Accor