06/20/2026
Reframing Maladaptive Thoughts to Change Behavior Patterns
What Are Maladaptive Thoughts?
Maladaptive thoughts are negative, unhelpful thinking patterns that can distort how you see yourself, others, and the world. They often feel automatic and convincing—but they’re not always accurate.
Common Examples:
• “I always mess things up.” (overgeneralization)
• “If they didn’t reply, they must not like me.” (mind reading)
• “Everything is going to go wrong.” (catastrophizing)
These thoughts can increase stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
Types of Treatment That Help:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT):
Thoughts are not facts. You can learn to reshape them. You can learn skills and new remedies that can change them to take action starting today.