Vincenza.
I'm finding people have different definitions. Not only of words but of actions. Also like most learning processes it is easier if you already have some theory or background.
CBT has three very specific words and a very specific meaning but it gets used by the people to flog their process even if the relationship between the two is weak.
If you stick with the specific definition it works permanently. If you wander it works but only temporary. And if you deviate too far it doesn't work at all. Also you can not pick and choose what you like and discard the rest. Putting the wrong stuff into memory where it is accessible to dictate your thoughts and actions can be harmful too. (OCD)
For me CBT means changing wrong thoughts for right ones, not just so you can function but so you won't have to do this continuously. If you have to use conscious thought all the time then it is too close to taking a pill for it. It is fine at the beginning but the object of CBT should be to change the overall picture so that it is not going to be an on going thing for the rest of your life.
"Functional" ( lets not use that word normal ) people do not go through their day doing constant checks and balances. There system is set up so they don't have to with only the odd trip into relaxation and coping when something unexpected happens.
Some internet cures are not CBT. They are just coping and relaxing and distracting skills. They get sold under the name because they work and they do change thinking processes. But in a temporary way, not permanent. Permanent is what you want.
So I'm back to definition. What is CBT?
What works and what doesn't? See, depending on definition Some of the things that fit CBT according to one definition do not work according to another definition. Even though both give release.
My little trick last night to dispel a panic attack works but is not CBT. It is a CBT technique though. CBT would have prevented it from happening. ( by the process of not having that thinking available) That is the aim. I also with a lot of people think that that is impossible but getting close is attainable. As long as people dream random thoughts and attach meaning to them they will be Night Mares and in those of us that have had panic attacks they can spill over into that. Negative thought can only be buried and obviously mine was not buried far enough last night. Again. CBT techniques got rid of it but true CBT would have prevented it.
Now here is the kicker. According to My therapist 80% true CBT and 20% techniques is about right for someone who has had panic attacks and knows what they are. So I fit the category "cured". I think I can do better.
What works? What doesn't? I'll have to think on that.
Davit.
