CBT Techniques Used to Treat Anxiety

As much as 19.1 percent of the adult population in the United States, or about 40 million people, is diagnosed with anxiety disorder. Anxiety can inhibit one from maintaining a normal, functional lifestyle.

Exposure to certain anxiety-inducing situations can trigger the brain. It then produces adrenaline and cortisol, the body’s fight-or-flight chemicals.

These spikes in chemicals can change our body’s normal functions. It creates anything from mild agitation and headaches to full-blown panic attacks. Many people suffering from anxiety have found relief using various CBT techniques.

Individuals learn how to beat anxiety by changing their thought patterns. Read on to learn more about CBT, anxiety, and how to improve your life.

What is CBT?

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy used to treat anxiety. The basis for CBT is the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have a connection.

Thus, we can change how our feelings by changing our thoughts and behaviors. CBT is a treatment for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.

Identifying and Challenging Negative Thoughts

It involves becoming aware of the negative thoughts contributing to anxiety. Then learning how to challenge and reframe them. Some activities involve journaling and discussing the views with a therapist.

Using other techniques such as visualization or positive self-talk is also applied. Reduced anxiety levels are a result when you are able to identify negative thoughts.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is one of the most successful. Exposure therapy involves exposing the individual to the object or situation they fear. It is either in real life or via imaginal exposure (i.e., mentally reliving the experience).

You can do this in a controlled and safe environment, such as with a therapist. It can help the individual to learn new ways of coping with their anxiety.

The exposure is usually repeated until the person no longer experiences significant anxiety. You can use this to treat a wide range of anxiety disorders, including phobias, panic disorders, social anxiety, and PTSD.

Relaxation Training

One common anxiety treatment is relaxation training. It involves several different methods, but the goal is always to help the person learn how to relax their body and mind.

You can do deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation. CBT techniques can be very effective in helping people to live a more peaceful life.

Developing Coping Skills

Individuals learn how to identify and manage their anxiety triggers. The use of relaxation techniques is very helpful.

The goal is to help the individual develop a more positive outlook on their anxiety. Also, to empower them to manage their symptoms better.

Use CBT Techniques and Be Anxiety-Free Today

CBT is an excellent tool for treating anxiety. It identifies and changes the negative thoughts and behaviors contributing to your stress.

CBT techniques can also help you develop healthy coping mechanisms for anxiety-provoking situations. If you are struggling with anxiety, seek help from a CBT therapist to overcome your fears.

We hope the information on this page was useful. If you want to learn more, be sure to take a look at some of our other articles, as well.