What is MBCT?
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a type of therapy that combines principles from cognitive therapy with mindfulness practices. It’s designed to help people who struggle with recurring depression or anxiety.
A breakdown of MBCT:
Mindfulness: MBCT teaches you to pay attention to the present moment without judgment. This means becoming aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they happen, which can help you break the cycle of negative thinking.
Cognitive Techniques: It incorporates cognitive therapy strategies, which help you identify and change unhelpful thoughts and beliefs. This helps you recognize when you’re slipping into negative patterns.
Awareness of Patterns: The therapy encourages you to notice the early signs of depression or anxiety so you can respond to them in healthier ways, rather than getting caught up in those feelings.
Group Sessions: MBCT often involves group sessions where participants practice mindfulness techniques together, share experiences, and support one another.
Overall, MBCT helps you develop a more compassionate and accepting relationship with your thoughts and feelings, reducing the risk of relapse into depression or anxiety.