These thoughts are calledcognitive distortions.
The average person usually brushes off cognitive distortions within a few minutes.
In these cases, cognitive restructuring can help you minimize the occurrences and effects of these negative thoughts.
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Once your thoughts and actions are changed, your core beliefs will also eventually shift.
For example, you might use cognitive restructuring to mentally prepare yourself for a party or a public presentation.
Cognitive restructuring is a process, not a single technique.
Determine if certain patterns exist.
It might be thatpublic speakingscares you, but not mingling with strangers.
A typical distortion experienced by those with SAD is black-and-white thinking or only seeing things in absolutes.
For instance, saying, “Ineverknow what to say at social functions.”
Tips for Practicing Cognitive Restructuring
Cognitive restructuring is an intensive process.
If persistent negative thinking is something you struggle with, it’s definitely worth seeking professional help.
Cognitive restructuring in the context of CBT could provide significant relief.
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Norton AR, Abbott MJ.The efficacy of imagery rescripting compared to cognitive restructuring for social anxiety disorder.J Anxiety Disord.
