She broke up with me last night. Now I'll never meet anyone.
Student worries about failing an exam --> Jumps to the conclusion that failing exam would mean they will never succeed in life
Counterevidence examples: Many people who are successful have failed exams. Sometimes there are ways to make up for a bad exam grade. One exam does not determine the future
She did not say anything about my new haircut. She must think it is ugly!
She is distracted, what matters is if you like it, I think it looks great too.
Other possible outcomes for catastrophizing: If I am late for my job interview, they will never hire me and they will tell other companies around that they should not grant me an interview either.
Examples ... Positive prediction: I will own the mishap and they will commend my vulnerability. Neutral prediction: They could be running late too and not notice. Less negative: I might not get this job, but they will not tear me down to anyone else.
She is moving to a new apartment because she does not like having me as a neighbor.
People move all the time, I'm sure it is not about you.
Other possible outcomes for ... My friend didn't respond to my text, they must be tired of me and don't want to be friends anymore.
Examples: My friend: is busy right now, has not seen my text, is having a bad day, didn't charge their phone ...
I know she complimented me on my new outfit but she was just being nice.
You look great and should accept the honest compliment because she has no reason to lie.
How would you talk to a friend differently: I forgot my wallet at home after going to the store and getting in the checkout lane; I'm so stupid, I mess everything up, this is humiliating.
Examples: You're only human. Everyone makes mistakes. You are doing your best. No one is fixated on you, people are thinking about their own lives.
I am incapable and cannot contribute anything to anyone.
You have so much good to give in this life and you contribute a lot to your friends and family just the way you are.
I have had a headache for two days. I should prepare for the worst.
"Headaches are common and happen occasionally. There is no need to worry." "If my headache doesn't go away in a day I will make an appointment with my PCP to check it out." "I am under a lot of stress and my body is probably telling me I need to take it easy."
Reframing emotionally charged language: I should never have done that, now everything is ruined.
Examples: It would've been nice if I did not do that, but I can't change the past. Some things might be a bit tricker now, but I have solved problems like this before.