If your doctor refers you to a specialist for cognitive behavioral therapy in Chicago, you likely have questions lingering in your mind. People battling mental issues such as depression, drug addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or even an anxiety disorder may undergo Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to improve their quality of life. As you look forward to your visit with the Uptown Psych team, here are some interesting facts about CBT worth your consideration.
How cognitive behavioral therapy works
CBT involves redirecting any negative thoughts you may be exhibiting that could lead to emotional issues. For example, if you witnessed your parents fight either verbally or physically, your childhood trauma could prevent you from viewing anything positive about life. In that case, CBT can help you heal your inner child’s wounds so you become more optimistic.
How CBT is conducted
Like any other psychiatric or psychotherapeutic intervention, CBT relies on many methods and approaches to influence your moods and behavior. CBT strategies include:
1. Knowing your negative thoughts
In a scenario where you experience panic attacks just by seeing people fight or being in a crowded public situation, you are likely having underlying negative thoughts. While examining and challenging your negative thoughts can be a bit daunting at times, particularly if you do not have a solid support system, seeing a psychotherapist can help you rediscover yourself through specific treatment options.
2. Adopting a new hobby
Some people develop alcohol or substance abuse due to boredom, as taking alcohol and drugs may be their only way of socializing with friends. Over time, addicts risk developing physical and mental issues since addiction impairs their thoughts, moods, and emotions. If you were scheduled for CBT to address your drug addiction problem, your therapist might ask you to adopt a hobby or practice new coping skills to prevent any occurrences of relapse.
3. Setting realistic goals
Once you have identified what triggers your mood changes, a CBT strategy can help you set realistic goals. Once you are fully healed, you will have identified what you want to achieve in life, focused on your strengths, and addressed your weaknesses. If your depression was due to job loss, you can help reset things by applying for a new job or starting a business. The bottom line is to keep yourself busy to prevent unwanted thoughts from occupying your mind.
4. Adopting problem-solving skills
Sometimes, certain situations may be beyond your control. In such circumstances, you cannot run away from problems, neither can you delay solving them. Therefore, approaching your problem head-on is the only way to effectively solve it. Problem-solving skills involve identifying a problem, creating a list of solutions, and selecting the most practical option available.
See a CBT specialist to restore your quality of life
CBT is all about reviewing how you are currently coping with life, not what you went through to get to that point. Seeking help as soon as you notice your moods and thoughts are negatively affecting your daily life is a great idea. To find out if CBT would be an appropriate treatment for you, be sure to schedule a consultation with an Uptown Psych therapist today.