AVOIDANCE:
Avoiding something makes us feel better for the moment because we evade the concern, the worry; unfortunately, you are exposing yourself to rumination, consequently maintaining depression.
Entertaining negative self-talk about oneself leads to a decreased ability to see options, i.e., I’ll never be in a relationship. It’s better to accept that I’m always going to be alone.”
The most problematic by-product of negative thinking is limited thinking; after all, the more you tell yourself you can’t do something, the more you accept it.
WHAT WORKS:
Socratic dialogue otherwise known as cognitive restructuring depends on your ability to notice the thoughts that trigger negative feelings and states of mind.Is this thought based on emotion or facts?
What evidence is there that this thought is valid?
What’s the worst that could happen? How would I react if the worst happens?
What other way could this news be interpreted?
What proof do you have that this thought isn’t real?
What are the nuances of this thought?
OVERTHINKING:
What if…” thinking is a distorted form of an understanding in which an individual selectively assumes negative consequences
What if I can’t pay my mortgage?
What if I don’t make the grade?
What if I have a panic attack at school?
WHAT WORKS
Overthinking identify triggers and patterns; I wish this… problem…would go away…I can’t handle this!
Try this: I will make this into a goal and use problem-solving skills; solutions are better than wallowing in misery
WHAT WORKS:
Recognize automatic negative thinking