Mental & Emotional Wellness Journal

automatic negative thoughts

When Your Mind Tells You Lies: Understanding Thinking Patterns That Hold You Back

Cognitive Distortions & Negative Thinking Patterns, When Your Mind Lies

Ten positive comments and one criticism. Which one loops through your mind? If the negative thought wins every time, you’re experiencing cognitive distortions, the thinking patterns that filter reality through anxiety, self-blame, and worst-case scenarios. These aren’t character flaws; they’re learned responses that once made sense but now keep you stuck. This article explores the most common thinking traps, why they develop, and how person-centred counselling helps you develop a more balanced, compassionate relationship with your thoughts.