Understanding Neuroplasticity and Low Self-Esteem - Part 2

Changing Thoughts and Beliefs

Introduction to the cognitive component of CBT and the role of thoughts and beliefs in shaping self-esteem

Alright are you ready for part 2? In cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), the key to success is realizing the link between your thoughts, feelings, and behavior. In essence, unpleasant ideas can result in undesirable feelings and behaviors that may be hard to control. You can start to change these unfavorable ideas and beliefs by recognizing them, which will ultimately lead to an improvement in your emotional and behavioral health. If you will, it's akin to a mental makeover. Don't we all want that?

Now, how you view yourself and your abilities is everything and means a lot when it comes to your level of self-esteem. When compared to people with low self-esteem, those with high self-esteem frequently have positive thoughts and attitudes about themselves. If you believe you can do something, you're more likely to carry it through. It's like a self-fulfilling prophecy. However, if you think you can't, you'll probably end up failing. Lets try and change that.

Lets continue. Shall we? CBT can help in this situation. In the end, it can assist you in creating a more positive self-image and enhancing your self-esteem by assisting you in recognizing and challenging these unfavorable thoughts and beliefs. But it's not a quick remedy. To notice a change, it takes time, commitment, and effort, but with the right attitude and perseverance, you can do it.

Strategies for maintaining and building upon the gains made through CBT

CBT is a form of psychotherapy that has been proven to be successful in treating a number of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression among other things. Maintaining and expanding on the improvements achieved with CBT can be difficult, though. Here are some tactics that could be useful:

·        Continue therapy: Continuing therapy sessions with a qualified CBT therapist can help to maintain the gains made during treatment. According to a study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, ongoing therapy can help to prevent relapse and improve long-term outcomes.

·        Practice self-reflection: Self-reflection can help to identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs that may have been addressed during therapy. Keep at it!  According to the National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists, self-reflection can help to maintain the gains made during therapy.

·        Use CBT techniques in daily life: Incorporating CBT techniques, such as cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy, into daily life can help to maintain the gains made during therapy. A study published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that the continued use of CBT techniques in daily life was associated with better outcomes.

·        Keep a journal: That's right, write stuff! Journaling can be used to spot thought, feeling, and behavior patterns. This might be helpful for tracking development over time and finding triggers for unfavorable thoughts and feelings.

·        Seek support: Joining a support group or seeking support from friends and family can help to provide a sense of community and a source of encouragement. Don't close yourself in, this is very important. According to a study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, social support can help to improve the outcomes of therapy.

·        Be patient: Slow and steady wins the race and that saying has lasted the test of time. It's important to remember that CBT is a process, and it may take time to see the full benefits. Be patient with yourself and stay committed to the process.

There you have it. I hope this has been hopeful. Please comment if you have any thoughts on this or any points made in the blog.