DEPRESSION

Depression is something that affects us all in varying degrees, especially during times of stress or grief. What we do to address these feelings of sadness and despair is paramount to the outcome of our emotional state of mind. Utilizing both cognitive and emotional training, we can strengthen our minds to become adept at dealing with a plethora of adverse events and negative mood states.

The cycle of depression begins with sad mood, followed by listlessness and inactivity, which in turn leads to further sadness and dread. Therefore, increasing both physical and mental activity often helps to disrupt the downward cycle. Additionally, examining false beliefs and challenging irrational thoughts are ways to reduce negative thinking. Since we are a direct product of our thoughts, and thoughts influence our mood states, then it follows that changing our thoughts to the more positive will uplift our mood state. This can be done through conscious effort and practice.

Through a combined program of cognitive-behavioral and existential training, it is possible to develop more control over states of emotion. By developing new abilities to manage sadness we boost our coping skills repertoire, enabling us to overcome feelings of grief and distress. Different strategies can be employed for different situations, and the cognitive toolbox unfolds...