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Depressive Triad: I suck, the world sucks, and it will be like this forever!

Dr. Aaron Beck was one of the pioneers in developing the theory and applications behind Cognitive Therapy for the treatment of clinical depression. In Dr. Beck's views, depression does not stem from a 'chemical imbalance in the brain." Instead, it stems from an imbalance in our way of thinking. When someone is depressed, there are usually three common themes to the content of their thoughts:

  • Negative View of Self: "I suck..."

  • Negative View of the World: "The world sucks..."

  • Negative View of the Future: "And it is never going to get better!"


He called these ways of thinking the "depressive triad." Depressed individuals often feel a loss of interest in things that were previously pleasurable or important to them and function at lower levels compared to their former selves. They can also experience noticeable changes in levels of energy, appetite, sleep, and ability to concentrate, while having thoughts of low self-worth, guilt, and, in more extreme cases, suicide. Here is a full list of symptoms of depression as defined by the American Psychiatric Association.. 


In Cognitive Therapy, client and therapist will partner up to identify common thought patterns for the client that relate to their depression. They can then analyze those patterns together, with openness and curiosity, to see what is 'off' about them. With close collaboration and powerful therapeutic techniques such as those in TEAM-CBT, the "depressive triad" can be annihilated.


Depressive Triad



Dr. Daniele Levy CBT Therapy

Psychology & Counseling

This website is provided for information purposes only.  No professional relationship is assumed by use of this website. If you are experiencing a psychiatric or medical emergency please go to your nearest emergency room or call 911.

Bay Area Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

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Florida License TPPY2894

Office: 830 Menlo Ave, Suite 200, Menlo Park CA

Mailing: 405 El Camino Real #256, Menlo Park CA

www.cbttherapy.com

Copyright © 2024 Daniele V. Levy, PhD​

650 434 3455

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