12 Common Cognitive Distortions: How Our Thoughts Affect How We Feel
Have you ever found yourself imagining the worst, being overly critical of yourself, or assuming you know what someone else is thinking?
These are examples of cognitive distortions, the habitual patterns of thinking that can influence how we interpret situations, experience emotions and respond to everyday challenges.
We all experience unhelpful thoughts from time to time, particularly when we're feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed. However, when these patterns become frequent, they can contribute to anxiety, low mood, self-doubt and difficulties in relationships.
The good news is that our thoughts are not always facts.
Learning to recognise cognitive distortions can help us become more aware of our thinking and develop a more balanced, compassionate perspective.
At Bath Counselling Service, we believe that understanding these patterns is a helpful step towards improving emotional wellbeing.
Recognising Common Thinking Patterns
Our infographic explores 12 common cognitive distortions, with examples of how they might appear in everyday life.
As you read through them, notice whether any feel familiar. The aim isn't to judge yourself for having these thoughts, but to approach them with curiosity.
What Can You Do When You Notice an Unhelpful Thought?
Try asking yourself:
What evidence supports this thought, and what evidence might challenge it?
Am I assuming the worst without knowing what will happen?
Would I speak to a friend the way I'm speaking to myself?
Is there another, more balanced way of looking at this situation?
What would a kinder, more realistic thought sound like?
Remember, the aim isn't to force yourself to think positively. It's to develop greater flexibility in how you understand yourself and your experiences.
How Counselling Can Help
Counselling offers a confidential, supportive space to explore recurring thought patterns, understand where they may have developed and consider whether they continue to serve you.
At Bath Counselling Service, we offer a warm, non-judgemental approach to helping you navigate life's challenges.
If you would like support with anxiety, low self-esteem, difficult emotions or recurring patterns of thinking, please get in touch to find out more about our counselling services.
