Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that is based on the principle that, at least in part, our mental suffering is due to unhelpful ways of thinking and unhelpful learned behaviors. CBT is highly effective at treating a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use problems. CBT helps individuals change both their thinking patterns and behavioral patterns to cope better with challenges and improve their mental health.

Many who receive effective CBT stay well without further treatment; however, this is not the case for everyone. When individuals are depressed, they experience both negative feelings and negative thinking. This can create a loop: sad feelings cause sad thoughts, which in turn cause more sad feelings.

For some of us, negative feelings easily trigger negative thinking, which can quickly lead to depressive relapse. Research suggests these folks may benefit the most from participating in a mindfulness-based program.

Unfortunately, difficult feelings are unavoidable. Sadness, frustration, and anxiety are inevitable. However, when these feelings lead to thinking discouraged and hopelessness, it is easy to mistake them for being objectively true.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy was developed by psychologists as a way to help individuals with a history of depression stay well and prevent depression relapse. To learn more about upcoming MBCT programs, click here.

Tips for Mental Wellness

Practice Gratitude
A simple gratitude practice is the Daily 5—listing five things you are grateful for each day. This can help with reframing.

References

American Psychological Association. (2017). What is cognitive behavioral therapy? https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral

Segal, Z. V., Williams, J. M. G., & Teasdale, J. D. (2013). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for depression (2nd ed.). The Guilford Press.

van der Velden, A. M., Kuyken, W., Wattar, U., Crane, C., Pallesen, K. J., Dahlgaard, J., Fjorback, L. O., & Piet, J. (2015). A systematic review of mechanisms of change in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in the treatment of recurrent major depressive disorder. Clinical Psychology Review, 37, 26–39. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2015.02.001