Learning About Thought Reframing

What is thought reframing?

Thought reframing is a skill taught in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It's the process of replacing negative thoughts (which can worsen things like anxiety, depression, and pain) with more helpful thoughts.

How can thought reframing help you?

Thought reframing helps you become more aware of how your thoughts are connected to your feelings and behaviors. Finding unhelpful thinking patterns and shifting them can make you feel better. That can help you better handle life's challenges. You may be more able to manage stress and handle depression, anxiety, or other problems.

How can you get started with thought reframing?

Here's how to get started with reframing unhelpful thoughts.

1. Notice the thought.

   Pay attention to thoughts that are discouraging. For example, in a job review, your boss praised several things about your work. But you're feeling down because she had one small criticism. You might even think, "I'm no good at my job" or "She doesn't like me. I must be bad." These thoughts can pop up sometimes before you can stop them. But learning to recognize them can help you shift them.

2. Question the thought.

   Look at that thought, without judging it, and ask yourself whether it is helpful or true. Ask yourself questions about the situation and your thoughts. You might ask, "What did my boss say exactly?" "Were there positive comments?" "Why do I focus only on one criticism?" Your answers can help you find more accurate and helpful ways to think about the situation.

3. Replace the unhelpful thought with a more helpful one.

   Here's where you can ask yourself "What's something that's true but more helpful?" For example, you might think, "I've done a lot of good work this year, and my boss noticed it. She thought there was one area I can improve. So I'll think of some things I can do to get stronger in that area."

   Here are some examples of negative thoughts and how they could be replaced with more helpful thoughts.

   • Example:

     • Original thought: "I'm sad that I don't have many friends. People must not like me."

     • Replacement thought: "I have some friends, so I know I can make more. It might just take some time."

   • Example:

     • Original thought: "I should get married before I'm 30. If I don't, I'll probably end up alone."

     • Replacement thought: "There's no guarantee that I'll meet the right person by the time I'm 30. If I don't get married by then, I still have time to find a good relationship."

Changing your thought patterns may not be easy. But our minds can be trained to be stronger and healthier—just like a muscle. With time and practice, you'll get better at noticing unhelpful thoughts and choosing healthier thoughts instead.

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.