It’s highly effective at treating depression because it directly addresses the negative thought patterns that contribute to the condition.
This is why it works so well:
- Identifies and restructures negative thinking
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- People with depression often have distorted thinking patterns, such as catastrophizing (“Everything will go wrong”), black-and-white thinking (“If I fail, I’m worthless”), and personalization (“It’s all my fault”).
- Cognitive therapy assists individuals in recognizing and challenging these unhelpful thoughts, replacing them with more balanced and reasonable perspectives.
- Breaks the cycle of depression
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- Depression creates a vicious cycle: negative thoughts → negative emotions → decreased motivation → withdrawal from activities → worsened mood.
- Cognitive therapy leads to healthier emotional responses and behaviors by interrupting this cycle by changing the way people interpret
- Encourages behavioral activation
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- A major symptom of depression is a lack of motivation and energy.
- CBT encourages individuals to gradually re-engage with activities that bring pleasure and accomplishment.
- Even seemingly minor actions, like taking a walk or calling a friend, can improve mood over time.
- Provides long-term skills
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- Unlike medications, which treat symptoms but don’t necessarily prevent relapse, cognitive therapy teaches lasting coping strategies.
- Patients learn how to handle setbacks, recognize antagonistic belief sequences, and apply problem-solving skills to new challenges, making them less likely to relapse.
- Supported by scientific research
- Works well with or without medication
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- It is beneficial on its own but also enhances the effects of antidepressants.
- This makes it a flexible treatment option depending on the severity of the issue and individual preference.
