Let’s Chat About Cognitive Distortions:

What even are cognitive distortions?

They are inaccurate and irrational thought patterns that can be categorized as “thought traps”

This work is best done with a therapist but I wanted to give you some insight to what they are and how to navigate them.

Some examples of cognitive distortions are all or nothing thinking, over-generalization, mind reading, catastrophizing, personalizing (just to name a few)

Since I have now identified some maladaptive thought patterns what comes next?

-Look at the evidence you have, to help you think through a situation from start to finish. For example, the evidence you have that whatever you are worrying about most likely won’t come true or the evidence that even if it does come true it is something you can handle

-Challenge your thoughts, if the situation did come true what is the worst thing that could happen

-Reframe your thoughts into more neutral ones

-Use deep breathing to calm down your central nervous system and allow you to pause and not react based on the emotion you are experiencing

-Journal about your thoughts and feelings and ask yourself, “How many other times have I felt this way and what is the most likely outcome here?”

I know that cognitive distortions and the symptoms that come with it can be difficult to manage but our brains are truly wired to protect us, where we get into trouble is when our brain is being overactive in situations that don’t align with what is going on at the current moment. Be gentle with yourself, you deserve the same kindness you give to others on a regular basis.