Experts estimate that the mind generates between 60,000 and 80,000 thoughts per day, which averages out to around 2,500 to 3,300 thoughts per hour. Most of these thoughts are fleeting, passing in and out of our awareness without much notice. Our brains have a natural ability to filter these thoughts, allowing only the most relevant ones to stick.

However, negative thinking patterns can disrupt this process. When thoughts become distorted, we may catastrophize potential outcomes, which can continuously harm our mental health. This can lead to anxiety, depression, or the development of conditions like OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) and other mental or physical health issues.

Life events and situations are only one part of the equation. To fully understand their impact, it’s also important to consider the beliefs people form about these experiences and the emotions that stem from those beliefs.

The most common irrational beliefs include:

• The belief that one has no control over their own happiness, feeling it is entirely dependent on external factors.

• The notion that they must be 100% successful and efficient in everything they do in order to feel valued and worthwhile.

• The idea that avoiding life's difficulties or challenges will lead to greater happiness.

• Being overly sensitive to others' mistakes or misconduct, often feeling responsible for the outcomes.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) aims to break the cycle of negative thinking. Through short-term therapy like CBT, I work to help clients overcome irrational, emotional, and negative thought patterns, ultimately addressing psychological issues and mental distress. CBT is a talking therapy that helps clients manage their problems by changing the way they think and behave. It focuses on how thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes influence feelings and actions, and we explore ways to change responses to different situations. This approach focuses on the present and empowers clients to adjust their behavior moving forward.

CBT’s structured nature and its use of goal setting also enable clients to continue their therapy outside of sessions. We discuss "homework" tasks that help clients feel actively involved in their own recovery and give them a sense of control over their progress. These tasks may include reading self-help material or conducting behavioral experiments by observing their actions and outcomes. I encourage clients to clearly understand the direction of therapy and what they can achieve. Collaboration between the client and therapist is essential for the success of CBT.