@ The Dimension Of Mind Dot Com
In CBT, a therapist works with you to identify specific problemsâlike anxiety, depression, or addictionâand then helps you break them down. The core process involves spotting automatic thoughts (those knee-jerk reactions or beliefs, like âIâm a failureâ or âI canât cope without a drinkâ), testing their accuracy, and replacing them with more balanced, realistic ones. For example, if someone in addiction recovery thinks, âIâll never stay sober,â CBT might challenge that by looking at evidence of past successes or small wins, shifting the thought to âIâve had tough days, but I can keep going.â
Itâs hands-on. You might do exercises like keeping a thought journal, practicing new behaviors (e.g., facing a trigger instead of avoiding it), or learning techniques like deep breathing to manage cravings or stress. The therapist doesnât just listenâthey guide you to actively rewire your mindset. Studies, like those from the American Psychological Association, show itâs highly effective for issues like substance use disorders, where it reduces relapse rates by targeting both the addiction and co-occurring issues like suicidal ideation or low self-esteem.
CBTâs big selling point is its structure and adaptability. Itâs not about endless navel-gazingâitâs about measurable change, usually over 12-20 sessions. Itâs less âwhy do I feel this wayâ and more âhow can I handle this better.â Thatâs why itâs a go-to in rehab settings: it gives people concrete tools to tackle the mental chaos that often fuels dependency.