1st Step in Cognitive Therapy: Keeping a Thought Journal
First things first. We are going to do this in baby steps. This is not something I was told to by a professional or a doctor, but I find that is the most important thing for when you are starting cognitive therapy. Keep a journal. You can write about your day, things you see, people you encounter-just don’t forget to write the thoughts that are going through your head. When you saw someone did you feel happier? Sadder? Did you stay the same in an emotional sense? Why did you get happier, sadder, or stay neutral? Think about these things and write them down. This will start you in the right direction. You will begin to pay attention to what you are thinking and how it affects your moods. So get a notebook, or a journal and start writing! Write every day. I mean it, every day. It doesn’t have to be a lot, but I would write for at least fifteen minutes. Next Step: Learning the Distortions
