How to Change Negative Thinking Patterns
How to Change Negative Thinking Patterns
Recognizing unhealthy thinking errors called 'cognitive distortions'
by Juliann Garey for ChildMind.org
Children can be their own worst critics. This is particularly true for kids with mental health disorders, who may be especially down on themselves. They can get stuck in negative thinking patterns that contribute to depression, amp up their anxiety, or make painful emotions feel overwhelming.
These negative thinking patterns are often unrealistic, but they can have significant impacts on our emotions, behaviors, and world views. Mental health experts call them cognitive distortions — they’re also sometimes referred to as cognitive errors, thinking mistakes, or thinking errors.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps kids identify, challenge, and ultimately restructure their thinking so that they can live healthier, better adjusted lives. Taking a cue from CBT, parents, too, can help kids recognize cognitive distortions, and reduce their intensity.