Alcoholism can feel like an inescapable, self-fulfilling prophecy, but it does not have to be that way. Many options exist to help you overcome an addiction to alcohol, and cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most common.
The reason for its success comes down to how effective CBT is in alcohol use patterns, the relative simplicity of its practice, and the lasting usefulness of the treatment once patients learn the necessary skills.
If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism, consider how cognitive behavioral therapy can aid in recovery.
What Is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a type of therapy practice that teaches individuals how to address problematic thought patterns in the present moment.
It focuses on the patient rather than the therapist — that is, the goal is to make the patient self-sufficient rather than needing to wait until they can see their therapist to address their issues.
CBT is a talk therapy, though it often involves other activities, such as journaling. The exact practices that are right for you will be a topic of discussion with your therapist because CBT is highly personalized for each individual.
This way, individuals can develop skills that align with their interests and thought patterns. Here are some ways CBT helps with alcoholism recovery.
Addressing False Narratives
One of the largest areas of focus in CBT is on a patient’s understanding of their own false narratives. What elements of their understanding of the world are inherently flawed, and how do those notions influence the actions and thoughts that intrude into their minds?
For instance, someone struggling with alcoholism may have a distorted notion of the effects of alcohol — that they can still function normally or that they can quit whenever they want, so it does not need to be today.
These narratives are false, and CBT can address the root causes of believing this way by supporting new viewpoints with strong information. By changing a person’s thought basis, their actions and worldview can also shift over time.
Releasing Negative Thought Patterns
Another part of the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy is how it helps people struggling with addiction to release the negative thought patterns that result in self-fulfilling prophecies.
For those in the grips of alcoholism, the most common example is believing that it is impossible to get better or will be too difficult. Because a person believes this, they are less likely to succeed, and the cycle continues.
CBT helps patients replace these negative cycles with positive ones, which cumulatively grow and bolster their advancement. This also helps a person to think clearly and realistically.
Focusing on the Present
Because cognitive behavioral therapy targets thought patterns, it is effective at addressing intrusive thoughts and behaviors in the present.
Unlike other types of therapy that center on past experiences and how they influence the present, CBT gives patients the skills to actively engage with thoughts they are having in the present moment. In turn, they can cull unproductive thoughts before they grow to be all-consuming and difficult to handle.
CBT encourages you to notice your body and mind in the present moment. Are there intrusive thoughts pushing you to drink, and how can you replace those with equally powerful positive thoughts that instead inspire you to achieve your goals? This takes practice, which CBT can provide.
Developing Personalized Coping Skills
One of the single greatest advantages of cognitive behavioral therapy is its personalized approach to coping skills. While other types of therapy might try blanket methods such as journaling to get patients to be reflective and successful, CBT takes each individual personality seriously.
For some, the thought of journaling is boring and unproductive — so the therapist will instead recommend art, exercise, or any of a wide range of other potential activities that interest that specific patient.
By understanding what makes each person tick, CBT therapists help patients create exciting and engaging coping skills that they actually want to use.
This increases the rate of success and grants people greater control when they are struggling since their coping mechanisms are enjoyable rather than another chore to complete.
Pursue Recovery With Expert CBT Help in Washington DC
Alcoholism recovery requires effort, but with the help of professionals and a strong support network, it is possible to escape from the burden of alcohol and its effects on your life.
The experts at Aquila Recovery Clinic can help you achieve better outcomes using cognitive behavioral therapy to equip you with personalized tools to battle addiction and come out on top.
Contact Aquila to schedule a CBT therapy session or explore your options for alcohol addiction treatment.