Relationship between cognitive distortions and depression. - Psicólogos a tu alcance en Madrid Capital (2024)

In clinical psychology, cognitive distortions and depression have been the subject of study for decades due to the close relationship that exists between the two. Cognitive distortions refer to irrational or incorrect thought patterns that can distort a person's perception of reality. On the other hand, depression is a mood disorder that affects millions of people around the world, causing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest in everyday activities.

Cognitive Distortions: What are they and how are they related to Depression?

Cognitive distortions are errors in the way we process information and in the way we interpret situations that arise. we live. These distorted thought patterns can affect our perception of ourselves, others, and our environment. Cognitive distortions are usually automatic and difficult to identify, since they are part of our habitual thinking.

There are different types of cognitive distortions, such as excessive generalization, catastrophizing, mind reading, among others. These distortions can influence the way we interpret the events of our daily lives, and can lead to a negative and biased view of reality.

The relationship between cognitive distortions and depression is based on the fact that distorted thoughts can contribute to the development and maintenance of depressive symptoms. People who suffer from depression often experience a series of cognitive distortions that reinforce their feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem.

Some common cognitive distortions in depression are:

< li>Overgeneralization: Tendency to draw general conclusions from a specific negative event.
• Mental filtration: Focusing only on the negative, ignoring positive aspects of a situation.
• Catastrophization: Exaggerating the magnitude of a problem, always anticipating the worst.
• Discounting the worst. positive: Minimizing or devaluing the positive aspects of life or oneself.

The Influence of Cognitive Distortions in Depression

Cognitive distortions They can act as a filter through which we interpret reality, focusing on the negative and distorting our perception of events and situations. This pattern of thinking can reinforce the feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem that are characteristic of depression.

When a person experiences cognitive distortions frequently, their perception of themselves, others, and the world changes. is negatively affected. These distortions can feed a negative cycle of thoughts and emotions that contribute to the onset and maintenance of depression.

The Cognitive Model of Depression

According to the proposed cognitive model of depression by Aaron Beck, Cognitive distortions play a critical role in the development and perpetuation of depression. Beck suggests that depressed people tend to interpret the information they receive in a biased way, focusing on the negative and distorting reality.

This negative cognitive focus can lead to a series of negative automatic thoughts that reinforce the symptoms. depressives. For example, a depressed person might interpret a neutral comment as personal criticism, triggering a series of self-deprecating thoughts and negative emotions.

The cognitive model of depression also suggests that cognitive distortions can be addressed. through cognitive behavioral therapy, which focuses on identifying and modifying negative automatic thoughts that fuel depression. By changing distorted thinking patterns, you can improve your perception of reality and reduce depressive symptoms.

The Importance of Treating Cognitive Distortions in Depression

Treating cognitive distortions in depression is essential to address the root of the problem and promote a more realistic and balanced view of reality. By identifying and challenging cognitive distortions, negative thought patterns can be modified and the intensity of depressive symptoms reduced.

Some strategies used in the treatment of cognitive distortions in depression are:

• Cognitive restructuring: Process through which negative automatic thoughts are identified and replaced by more realistic and balanced thoughts.
• The technique of Socratic questioning: Method that consists of questioning the validity and veracity of distorted thoughts, promoting a more objective and critical approach.
• Training in reattribution of causes: Strategy that helps identify and modify erroneous interpretations about the causes of negative events, promoting a more adequate vision of situations.

In addition to specific interventions aimed at addressing cognitive distortions, Treatment for depression may also include psychological therapy, antidepressant medication, and emotional support. It is important to work together with a mental health professional to design an appropriate and personalized treatment plan.

Conclusions

In summary, cognitive distortions and depression are closely related, since irrational and negative thought patterns can contribute to the development and maintenance of depressive symptoms. Identifying and addressing cognitive distortions is essential in the treatment of depression, as it allows us to modify negative automatic thoughts and promote a more realistic and balanced perception of reality.

The cognitive-behavioral approach is one of the main therapeutic currents used in the treatment of depression, since it focuses on modifying the dysfunctional thought patterns that feed the disease. Working together with a mental health professional can be key to overcoming depression and learning to more effectively manage cognitive distortions that may arise on the path to recovery.