Depression
Cognitive (CBT) Tools to Deal with Negative Thoughts
How should I respond if I think I’m depressed, or someone I love is depressed?
If you believe you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of depression, please reach out to a medical doctor or mental health therapist for a formal assessment when:
- Your distress is intense – some emotional or mental discomfort can be a normal part of life’s ebb and flow, but when it interferes with your ability to function and enjoy life, it may be time to seek help
- Your distress has been going on for a long time – we all have bad days, but distress that lasts for weeks or months is not ordinary
- Your distress is damaging – if your relationships, your academics, or your job is being negatively affected, it may be time to seek help
- Your sleep – is significantly affected (too much or too little)
- Unusual thoughts – especially about harming yourself or others
If you are experiencing mild symptoms of depression, watch the videos in the “Go Deeper” section of this tab for a more detailed understanding and ways to treat depression.
If you have serious thoughts of self-harm, or know someone who does, please seek help immediately.
Click here for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
If a loved-one is considering self-harm, do not leave them alone. Call your doctor or 911, and wait with the person until help arrives, or take them directly to the emergency room for treatment.
Learn more about suicidality.
Other Helpful Tools: Apps, Links, and Self-Help for Depression:
- Track moods for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more with T2 Mood Tracker (iPhone) and (Android).
- Workbook and handouts on Depression
- Discovering Hope Workbook
- Have a real-time anonymous confidential conversation with a trained active listener using the 7 Cups of Tea app for iPhone or Android.
- Depression and CBT worksheets and Handouts
- Understanding CBT and Negative Thinking Styles (Automatic Thoughts)