Catastrophising
Catastrophising is a cognitive distortion where individuals imagine and believe that the worst possible outcome will happen, even when it is highly unlikely. In the context of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), addressing this thought pattern is vital for improving mental health.
Common Challenges
- Individuals experiencing heightened anxiety and stress
- Difficulty in managing daily activities due to pervasive negative thoughts
- Struggling with a realistic assessment of situations
Key Insights into Catastrophising
Catastrophising involves magnifying an event’s potential negative impact, leading to distress. In CBT, this thought pattern is identified and restructured to create a more balanced perspective. Addressing catastrophising helps individuals:
- Reduce anxiety and stress
- Improve decision-making and problem-solving abilities
- Improve overall mental wellbeing
Features and Benefits
- Identifies irrational thoughts
- Promotes balanced thinking
- Improves emotional regulation
Convenience and Flexibility
CBT techniques to address catastrophising can be practised in various settings, including therapy sessions, at home, or even during daily activities.
Learn More
For further information on managing cognitive distortions, get in touch with the Leone Centre.
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How it Works
Therapists guide individuals through exercises to identify and reframe catastrophic thoughts. Techniques include cognitive restructuring, mindfulness, and behavioural experiments.
What is Catastrophising?
Catastrophising is the tendency to predict and focus on the worst possible outcomes of a situation, often leading to heightened anxiety and stress.
How CBT Helps
CBT addresses catastrophising by helping individuals recognise and challenge their irrational thoughts, replacing them with more balanced and realistic ones.
FAQs
What causes catastrophising?
How does CBT address catastrophising?
Can catastrophising be completely eliminated?
References
- Psychology Today – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- National Center for Biotechnology Information – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Mind UK – Anxiety and Panic Attacks
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This glossary provides definitions of various counselling terms and approaches for informational purposes only, without implying endorsement or service provision