What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?

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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is a structured psychological treatment that recognises that the way we think (cognition) and act (behaviour) affects the way we feel. CBT involves working with a professional mental health clinician to identify thought and behaviour patterns that are either making you more likely to develop anxiety or depression, or stopping you from getting better. Once you’ve recognised any unhelpful patterns that are contributing to your anxiety or depression, you can make changes to replace these with new ones that improve your mood and coping skills.

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What are the Benefits of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy?

People often find themselves stuck in catastrophizing thinking patterns – anticipating the worst or believing something is far worse than it actually is. CBT helps by teaching you to think more realistically and focus on positive problem solving. If you actively avoid situations or things that cause anxiety, CBT can help you face your fears and approach these situations more rationally. Professionals may use a range of techniques in CBT. Examples include:

• Evaluating how realistic your thoughts are by looking at evidence for or against them

• Equipping you with the tools needed to address problems you’re facing.

• Teaching relaxation and breathing techniques, particularly muscle relaxation, controlling anxiety and the physical symptoms of tension.

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Sources:

Beyond Blue

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