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Showing posts with the label Behavioral Activation

Three CBT Techniques to Control That Rage Response

So, you’ve noticed you might be a bit of a rage volcano. That little firework show happening in your brain each time someone breathes wrong? It’s time to address it, because—believe it or not—the world isn’t out to test your limits. 1. Cognitive Restructuring: Because Maybe Your Thoughts Aren't Golden Wisdom Your anger usually begins with a thought. No, it’s not always some profound truth you’ve stumbled upon; sometimes it’s a distorted reaction. The first rule here: recognize that just because you thought something, it doesn’t mean it’s accurate. Next time your inner Hulk emerges, pause and question: “Is this actually true, or am I jumping to a dramatic conclusion?” It turns out, people aren’t actually conspiring to ruin your life just because they cut you off in traffic. Cognitive restructuring is about rewiring those wild interpretations—yes, some of them are wildly off—to something that might pass for reality. Challenge yourself to look at other perspectives. How’s that person

Learning Cognitive Behavioral Skills: A Practical Guide

Cognitive behavioral skills are foundational for mental well-being. They offer a structured approach to understanding the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. By mastering these skills, individuals can break free from destructive thinking patterns and navigate life with greater resilience and purpose. Identifying Negative Thought Patterns The first step in cognitive behavioral skills is to recognize negative thought patterns. These thoughts often come automatically, and we accept them as facts without question. This is dangerous because our thoughts shape our perceptions, and distorted thinking leads to distorted living. Automatic negative thoughts (ANTs) are often exaggerated and unhelpful. You might assume the worst about a situation without considering the evidence. This is called “catastrophizing,” a hallmark of cognitive distortions that can keep you trapped in anxiety or depression. To counter these distortions, you must engage in conscious observation. When a ne