In this episode, Therese Markow and Dr. Elizabeth Scott discuss the impact of cognitive distortions on stress. Dr. Scott explains what cognitive distortions are, how they lead to increased stress and emotional difficulties and gives examples of different types of distortions. They discuss how the distortions can be mitigated. They also talk about why addressing cognitive distortions is crucial for mental and physical health, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being. Finally, Dr. Scott provides free or minimal cost resources to help you change cognitive distortions and regain power over your mind.

Key Takeaways:

• Cognitive distortions are patterns of thinking that skew our perception of reality. They are shortcuts of the brain, but they aren’t always accurate and can lead to increased stress and emotional difficulties.

• Cognitive distortions often prevent us from enjoying the good things in life through distortions such as catastrophizing, jumping to conclusions, emotional reasoning, or disqualifying the positive, among many others.

• Your brain's attempt to protect you from disappointment and from setting yourself up to be hurt can actually create stress. Remember, stress response is triggered when our mind thinks there's a threat, whether there is one or not.

• Over time, we can rewire our brains to think more positively and accurately. Intentionally focusing on the things that are going well and moments of gratitude, will help your brain to help notice the good as well as the bad.

• It is never too early to teach children about thoughts and recognizing patterns.

"Once we can identify these distortions, we can challenge them and begin to think more realistically and positively." — Dr. Elizabeth Scott

Check out Dr. Scott’s link for a new course Designed for anyone tired of being held back by negative thought loops. Take charge of your thoughts.

https://drelizabethscott.com/mindset-makeover-masterclass-landing-page/

Episode References:

• Woebot: https://woebothealth.com/

• CBT Thought Diary: https://www.thinkwithclarity.com/

• The Five Minute Journal: https://www.intelligentchange.com/collections/all/products/the-five-minute-journal

Connect with Elizabeth Scott, Ph.D.:

Twitter: https://x.com/ElizabethScott

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AboutStressManagement/

Website: https://drelizabethscott.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.elizabethscott/

Book: 8 Keys to Stress Management: amazon.com/Keys-Stress-Management-Mental-Health-ebook/dp/B00AJUKO5M

Connect with Therese:

Website: www.criticallyspeaking.net

Threads: @critically_speaking

Email: theresemarkow@criticallyspeaking.net

Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.