HealthyLife Articles

Tag: patterns

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

SUCCESS OVER STRESS

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that builds strategies for coping with negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is one of the most well-researched and effective types of therapy available.

CBT is based on the core principle that many psychological problems are due, in part, to faulty or unhelpful ways of thinking and behaving, but these patterns of thought and action can be changed.

Principles

CBT can be done in group or individual sessions with a licensed therapist. During these sessions, participants work to:

* Recognize distorted or unhelpful thoughts and emotional responses

* Identify destructive or unhealthy behaviors

* Learn skills to replace or modify these thoughts, emotions, and actions

While CBT is best initiated with a skilled psychotherapist, over time, the goal is for clients to gain coping skills that allow them to identify and change their own problematic thinking, emotional responses, and actions.

Common strategies

The exact strategy used in CBT sessions is individualized for each patient. Here are some common techniques and goals:

* Compare distorted thought patterns with reality.

* Understand the source of behavior and motivation.

* Use problem-solving skills to address difficult situations.

* Gain confidence in one’s abilities.

* Learn to face fears instead of avoiding them.

* Learn to relax and calm body and mind.

* Practice role-playing to prepare for tough interactions.

When CBT might be helpful

CBT can be helpful in addressing a wide range of psychological conditions.

* Anxiety

* Depression

* Substance abuse

* Addiction

* Marital problems

* Eating disorders

* Severe mental illness

* Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Getting started

* Talk to your doctor. They can refer you to a CBT licensed therapist in your area.

* Call your insurance company to find out your coverage and recommended providers.

* Ask friends and family if they have a therapist to recommend.

* If you are in crisis and need help right away, don’t wait-call 911 or 1-800-273-TALK for immediate support.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Face Up To Your Drinking Habits

Substance Use & Abuse

Are you a social drinker or a problem drinker? If you have any doubts, you probably have a problem or are developing one. Alcoholics Anonymous has developed the following quiz to help you determine if you have a drinking problem.

1. Have you ever decided to stop drinking for a week or so, but lasted only a few days? Yes ____ No ____

2. Do you wish people would mind their own business about your drinking and stop telling you what to do? Yes ____ No ____

3. Have you ever switched from one kind of drink to another in the hope that this would keep you from getting drunk? Yes ____ No ____

4. Have you had a drink in the morning during the past year? Yes ____No ____

5. Do you envy people who can drink without getting into trouble? Yes ____ No ____

6. Had problems connected with drinking during the past year? Yes ____ No ____

7. Has your drinking caused trouble at home? Yes ____ No ____

8. Do you ever try to get extra drinks at a party because you’re not served enough?

Yes ____ No ____

9. Do you tell yourself you can stop drinking any time you want, even though you keep getting drunk when you don’t mean to? Yes ____ No ____

10. Have you missed days of work because of drinking? Yes ____ No ____

11. Do you have blackouts? Yes ____ No ____

12. Have you ever felt your life would be better if you did not drink? Yes ____ No ____

How to score: If you answer yes to four questions or more, chances are you have a problem and should seek professional help.

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026
Identify Disordered Eating

Healthylife® Weigh

Part 5

Disordered eating can be hard on your body and your mind. Follow the guidelines in this book to develop a realistic, patient approach to managing weight. Be self-kind, not self-critical.

Eating Disorders

If you are concerned that you may have an eating disorder (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or a binge eating disorder), contact your doctor immediately, as these are serious medical conditions. You can also find more information here:

National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

Helpline: 800-931-2237

National Institute of Mental Health

www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders/index.shtml

© American Institute for Preventive Medicine

January 23, 2026