Cognitive Theory of Anxiety

The Cognitive Theory of Anxiety suggests that our thoughts influence our feelings of anxiety. When we interpret situations as threatening or believe we can't handle them, our anxious feelings increase. Negative thinking patterns, such as expecting the worst or overestimating danger, can maintain or worsen anxiety. Conversely, changing these thoughts—by challenging fears or focusing on realistic assessments—can reduce anxiety levels. Essentially, our mental interpretations play a crucial role in how anxious we feel, highlighting the importance of addressing thought patterns in managing anxiety effectively.