Ease Depression With Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Depression is a common mental health problem that many individuals face. Fatigue, sadness, illness and even a loss of friends are all signs that you may be depressed. Cognitive therapy is done with a mental health specialist and the patient. The goal of this therapy is to get the patient to realize how he reacts and interprets different situations. Here's utilize this popular and effective therapy to ease depression.

Instructions

1. Choose a counselor. One of the most important steps in successfully using cognitive therapy to help with depression is to find the right therapist. Don’t settle for just any therapist. You have to feel completely comfortable with your therapist in order to get the most out of your cognitive therapy. The wrong therapist will likely stunt your results and will also be a waste of your money. The website of the National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists will point you to the therapist near you (see Resources below).

2. Keep a journal. It is likely that your therapist will tell you to keep a running journal. The purpose of this is to document how you feel and when you feel the way you feel. A journal is a definitive tool in therapy. Bring your journal to your session and discuss it with your therapist. Sometimes it helps to study your journal or at least reread it before your session.

3. Be an active patient. While you might not be crazy about the things your therapist tells you to do, keep an open mind. Understand that she is a professional and wants to help you. By remaining an active patient, you will get the most out of your money and achieve optimal results.

4. Keep a running list. In our busy lives, it’s hard to remember things when you’re on the spot, especially in a counseling session. You can beat this common frustration by keeping a running list throughout the week of what you want to discuss with your therapist. Do this in addition to your journal.

5. Notice when you need more. If you are going through an incredibly difficult patch, or if you’re experiencing extreme success in your cognitive therapy, don’t be afraid to ask for an extra session. This will either keep the ball rolling or get it rolling once again if your progress has slowed down.

6. Be open to suggestions. It is possible that your therapist may suggest medicines or exercises for you. While your first inclination may be to completely reject the suggestions, it is important to understand that these exercises are vital to successful cognitive therapy. If you are serious about overcoming your depression, it is important to keep an open mind.

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