Dear members,
There are a number of CBT techniques
that are commonly used to help people challenge worry including: thought
records, thought stopping, worry time, challenging the value of worry,
problem solving, experiments to increase intolerance of uncertainty and
cognitive exposure. Let’s take a look at Relaxation Techniques.
People
with depression often experience a number of physical symptoms of
generalized anxiety (hyperarousal) that include restlessness, being
easily tired, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension and
sleep disturbance.
The best way to reduce
physical symptoms is through the regular practice of relaxation
techniques. There are many different ways to relax including aerobic
exercise, meditation, yoga, mindfulness meditation and hypnosis. Two of
the most common relaxation CBT techniques used in the treatment of
depression and anxiety are controlled breathing and progressive muscle
relaxation (PMR). Practicing one or both of these relaxation exercises
on a regular basis can help reduce your overall physical symptoms of
anxiety.
But be careful! It is important to note
that relaxation exercises are not intended to be used as a specific
strategy to fight the symptoms of anxiety during a panic attack. That
often leads to an increase in the anxiety as people worry that they
cannot control the physical symptoms. It is most important to learn that
anxiety symptoms will subside on their own and do not require
intervention. Although they are extremely uncomfortable, they are not
dangerous.
Does this strategy work for you?
