How we think affects how we feel

Dr Lucy Robinson talked us through the idea that our thoughts are an interpretation of a situation. And also, that our thoughts influence our feelings and actions.

This is one of the central ideas of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is one of the most effective approaches we have for working with negative and self-critical thinking.

We have some choice over the thoughts we have – or at least whether we believe the thoughts we have. When we understand that thoughts are just an interpretation rather than a fact, it gives us lots of opportunity for changing situations where we are stuck with negative thoughts. We cover this idea more in the next steps.

Discussion

After you have watched the video, tell us what you think about this idea in the discussion forum below. Is it something you knew about already? Does it make sense to you? Do you think it’s helpful? Does it go against your understanding?