Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is based on the theory that our thoughts affect how we feel, and how we behave.
Have you ever noticed how deeply movies can affect your emotions? Perhaps you've experienced the tension of a suspenseful scene, the absolute sorrow when your favourite character dies, or the relief or joy of a happy ending. It's fascinating how films can make us feel so intensely, even though we're not directly involved in the story.
The reason behind this is quite straightforward. It's not the actual situation that triggers our emotions, but our thoughts about the situation. For example, it's not fear of being in a dark hallway or alley that causes our fear; it's what we imagine might happen in that hallway or alley that brings about the fear. Essentially, our thoughts have the power to influence our feelings.
This principle is at the heart of CBT. CBT teaches you to identify and alter the thought patterns that lead to negative emotions or behaviours. By reshaping these thoughts, you can change how you feel and enhance your overall mental health.
CBT Builds Resilience
One of the core components of CBT is helping you recognise negative or unhelpful thought patterns. These patterns often contribute to stress, anxiety, and other emotional difficulties. By becoming aware of these thoughts, you can start to challenge and change them.
CBT encourages the development of healthier and more positive thoughts. This shift in thinking can help you approach situations with a more optimistic and constructive mindset, which is crucial for building resilience.
CBT teaches practical coping strategies to manage stress and emotional turmoil. These skills include techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and problem-solving methods. Equipped with these tools, you are better prepared to handle life's challenges.
CBT teaches practical coping strategies to manage stress and emotional turmoil. These skills include techniques like mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and problem-solving methods. Equipped with these tools, you are better prepared to handle life's challenges.
CBT not only focuses on thoughts but also on behaviours. You will learn to engage in activities that promote wellbeing and reduce stress. This might include setting goals, maintaining a routine, and practicing self-care. You will be able to gain a sense of control over your thoughts and actions. This increased sense of self-efficacy—the belief in your ability to influence outcomes, will boost your confidence and resilience.
CBT emphasises the importance of social support. You will be encouraged to build and maintain strong relationships with friends, family, and support groups. These connections provide emotional support and practical assistance during tough times.
CBT helps you view situations from different angles and adopt more balanced perspectives. This ability to reframe challenges in a less threatening way can reduce emotional distress and build resilience.
For those dealing with fears or traumatic experiences, CBT uses gradual exposure techniques to help you face your fears in a controlled and safe manner. This process can build resilience by reducing the power of those fears over time.
CBT emphasises the importance of social support. You will be encouraged to build and maintain strong relationships with friends, family, and support groups. These connections provide emotional support and practical assistance during tough times.
CBT helps you view situations from different angles and adopt more balanced perspectives. This ability to reframe challenges in a less threatening way can reduce emotional distress and build resilience.
For those dealing with fears or traumatic experiences, CBT uses gradual exposure techniques to help you face your fears in a controlled and safe manner. This process can build resilience by reducing the power of those fears over time.
.png)