Cognitive Distortions
I messed up this task; now everything is ruined.
Catastrophizing
I feel like they didn’t like my presentation, but I’m not sure.
Rational
Why: Acknowledges uncertainty instead of assuming a conclusion; no distortion is being treated as fact.
I always fail.
I make mistakes sometimes and can learn.
Friend didn’t wave
They don’t like me
What does CBT stand for?
(Bonus: Explain it)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(Bonus: It is a structured, goal-oriented type of psychotherapy (talk therapy) designed to help individuals manage mental health conditions by changing harmful thought patterns and behaviors. )
I know they think I’m boring
Mind Reading
My friend didn’t reply to my text. They might be busy.
Rational
Why: Considers multiple explanations without jumping to conclusions.
Nobody likes me.
Some people care about me.”
Someone laughed at me
They’re judging me
Name 2 cognitive distortions
Overgeneralizing, Labeling Black and white thinking, Blaming, Should statements, Jumping to conclusions, etr.
If I fail once, I’m a total failure.
All-or-Nothing
Everyone at PathPoint is judging me.
Irrational
Why: Mind reading; assumes others’ thoughts without evidence.
I’m stupid.
I have strengths and weaknesses.
Didn’t get invited
I’m not important
What's an Irrational thought?
Beliefs and judgments are based on emotions, biases, or flawed reasoning rather than objective reality
Nothing ever goes right for me.
Overgeneralizing
I didn’t do well on this test, but I can study differently next time.
Rational
Why: Focuses on growth, problem-solving, and realistic thinking.
They ignored me.
They might be busy, not upset.
Spilled coffee
I’m clumsy
Name one way to challenge a negative thought
Evidence for/against, alternative explanations, balanced thinking
They’re upset; it must be my fault.
Personalization
If I speak up in group, I’ll embarrass myself and everyone will remember it forever.
Irrational
Why: Catastrophizing and overestimating consequences; unlikely outcome.
I can’t do anything right.
I can do some things well, and improve the rest.
I didn't come to group today
I always mess up
Name 2 situations that might trigger automatic negative thoughts
Social interactions, exams, conflict