Is it normal to talk to yourself?

Yes — self-talk is common and often helpful for focus, memory, and emotional regulation. It becomes a concern only when it involves responding to voices others can't hear, or when it's distressing and uncontrollable.

Research suggests self-directed speech improves task focus, working memory and self-control, particularly for complex tasks.

It becomes clinically relevant only when it involves hearing or replying to voices others cannot hear, or when it is distressing and outside your control.