28 April 2023

I'm Back - Back to Thinking...

 

Hello and welcome back.

In previous post I described cognitive distortions.

Just to remind: distortions are cognitive errors in thinking that can lead to negative emotions, such as anxiety, depression, and anger. These distortions are often automatic and can be hard to recognize, but with practice and awareness, we can learn to identify them and "translate” them into reality.

By knowing these distortions and transforming them, we can regulate our thinking and thus our emotions. If we can steer our thoughts on the right track, we will be able to think objectively and reduce any negative emotions we may be experiencing.

So, how can we transform distortions into reality? One helpful tool is cognitive restructuring, which involves identifying and changing negative thought patterns. This can be done by asking ourselves questions, such as "Is this thought based on fact or opinion?" or "Is there evidence to support this thought?"

Another helpful tool is mindfulness, which involves being present and aware of our thoughts and emotions. This can help us recognize when we are experiencing distortions and allow us to respond to them in a healthy way.

In conclusion, knowing distortions is important because they cause errors in thinking and can lead to negative emotions. By learning to identify and transform these distortions into reality, we can regulate our thinking and improve our mental well-being.