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Negative automatic thoughts are theconsciousor subconscious thoughts that occur involuntarily in response to everyday events.
These thoughts are irrational, self-defeating, and indicative of negative core beliefs someone has about themself.
For instance, if you experience negative automatic thoughts like “Why am I so stupid?”
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The negative thoughts can be overwhelming and dominate how you think and act.
In our day-to-day routine, the most deeply held beliefs are not spoken.
Your opinions of yourself as a person or as a friend aren’t always expressed.
If you have social anxiety, you may have incredibly strong negative feelings about yourself.
It is essential to write down these thoughts as they occur.
These are the beliefs that guide how you think and act.
This is the first step in overcoming negative automatic thoughts.
This thought impacts all you do, worsening your anxiety and filling you with loneliness.
Yourtherapistwill walk you through the process of challenging these irrational beliefs.
Their feelings for you may directly contradict what you have identified as a belief about yourself.
This discordance shows that you are actually loved and valued and that your inner thoughts are false and irrational.
As you continue to work on this yourself, you may find yourself growing more confident and less anxious.
Social Anxiety Disorder: More Than Just Shyness.
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Anxiety: Stop Negative Thoughts.
2015;52(2):129-35.
Beyond Worry: How Psychologists Help With Anxiety Disorders.
2014;2(3):1603. doi:10.4081/hpr.2014.1603
