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5 Types Of Faulty Thoughts Caused By Depression That You Need To Know
It’s not just a low mood, depression can change the way you think
As someone who has suffered depression all my adult life I have a lot of experience with it. I recognise all of these thought patterns in myself, and in particular, my parents. The types of faulty thoughts caused by depression can greatly prolong a depressive period and even cause you to relapse when you’re feeling better. These are called cognitive distortions.
My Experience
Until I did a thorough self-inventory, I would have told you I learned about all of these cognitive distortions from watching my mother and stepfather. It’s true, they exhibited pretty much all of these, and now they’re in their sixties, I seriously doubt they’ll ever change. They’re my stark warning about what happens if you give in to your illness too completely.
I know that might sound both horrible and harsh, but I tried to help them, believe me. I researched depression, went to doctors appointments, psychiatrist appointments, encouraged them to take therapy seriously, cleaned the house, cooked, helped them create budgets, and so, so many more things. None of it helped. Ever.
That’s why I was horrified when I recognised parts of their behaviour in me. Nothing could have been a…