Depression is one of the problems treated at the Manhattan Center for Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. It can occur for many reasons and can range from mild to debilitating. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression can involve efforts to increase certain behaviors that improve mood and decrease behaviors that worsen mood. CBT may also focus on the relationship between one’s thoughts and behaviors. Some people experience low mood that is at least partially fueled by specific thought patterns – for example, negative thoughts about one’s competence or self-worth. While no one has total control over which thoughts come up in our minds, we can exert some control over what we tell ourselves. CBT can help change this mental dialogue in ways that improve one’s mood.
Behavioral activation for depression
Behavioral activation is a version of CBT that has been shown through research to be specifically effective in the treatment of depressive disorders. This approach is partially based on the notion that clinically depressed people have often ceased to do some things that used to bolster their mood. They may not be aware of this change, but by re-engaging with those activities and behaviors, mood improves. Working with a CBT therapist can help people determine if and how such behavior change might be helpful in their efforts to address depression.
