Posted by mist on July 8, 2002, at 12:04:47
In reply to Re: Anyone interested in CBT? Let's talk!, posted by MattDDS on July 8, 2002, at 1:49:12
Matt,
My main problem is depression. I also have a low-grade background anxiety about going outside of my home (although I do enough to meet my basic needs). But I'm most concerned about the depression. Fortunately, though, it's not as bad presently as it has been at other times.
I'll think of an example of one of my negative thoughts and post it. I used to be more aware of them when I was trying the Feeling Good techniques and was writing them down on a regular basis (although I never did this long term). I'm less aware of specific thoughts now (other than obvious ones, such as "I'm hungry." lol.) The negative thoughts mostly operate below the surface, so even pulling them out to the light of day takes some effort. I have to stop and try to "listen" to them. One thing I noticed in the past was that sometimes when I'd write down these thoughts, seeing them on paper would make me feel more depressed! (Not always though.)
I'll let you know when I can identify a thought to try to change. I'm in a bit of a fog right now, but I like the idea.
It's good to hear that CBT has worked for you. Can you give an example of a specific thought you were able to change, resulting in your feeling better? Also, did you use any of the behavioral techniques in Burns books?
-mist
poster:mist
thread:538
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20020702/msgs/545.html