Introduction
In my previous article, I described techniques, particularly CBT techniques, for ADHD. In this article, I will expand upon this topic and include more CBT techniques for ADHD. They include cognitive restructuring, writing self-statements to counteract negative self-statements, and in addition to visualization.
Cognitive Restructuring
What is cognitive restructuring? According to en.wikipedia.org, the following can be mentioned about cognitive restructuring:
Cognitive restructuring (CR) is a psychotherapeutic process of learning to identify and dispute irrational or maladaptive thoughts known as cognitive distortions,[1] such as all-or-nothing thinking (splitting), magical thinking, over-generalization, magnification,[1] and emotional reasoning, which are commonly associated with many mental health disorders.“
To specific, when you have ADHD, you can become easily distracted and have difficulty organizing tasks. This can become frustrating to individuals with ADHD. In return, this can lead to cognitive distortions. As a result, cognitive restructuring helps to prevent the development of these cognitive distortions. In return, cognitive restructuring helps to restore the development of less irrational thought processes and more rational thought processes. This is the goal of cognitive restructuring.
Write Self-Statements To Counteract Negative Self-Statements
According to everydayhealth.com, another cognitive behavioral therapy technique that can be used for individuals with ADHD is writing self-statements to counteract negative self-statements. According to everydayhealth.com, the following can be noted about writing self-statements to counteract negative self-statements:
Write a self-statement to counteract each negative thought. Remember your self-statements and repeat them back to yourself when you notice the little voice in your head creeping in to snuff out a positive thought. In time, you’ll create new associations, replacing the negative thoughts with positive ones.
Having ADHD can be overwhelming, therefore writing positive self-statements and seeing them on paper can re-affirm your attitude and brighten your day.
Visiluatization
On a third and final note, another CBT technique that can be used for individuals with ADHD is visualization. According to everydayhealth.com, the following can be mentioned:
At the end of each day, write down or type into an online journal the things in your life you’re most thankful for. Recording positive thoughts, and even sharing those thoughts online, can help you form new associations in your mind or create new pathways, Carmichael says. Someone who’s created a new pathway of thinking might go from waking up in the morning thinking, “Ugh, another workday” to “What a beautiful day it is.”
Conclusion
To end this article, three CBT techniques have been mentioned for individuals with ADHD. They include but are not limited to cognitive restructuring, writing down self-statements, and visualization.