Cognitive distortions
Habitual, biased ways of thinking, like catastrophising or all-or-nothing thinking, that distort reality and feed anxiety and depression.
Category: Concepts and skills
What is cognitive distortions?
Common distortions: catastrophising (assuming the worst), all-or-nothing thinking, mind reading (assuming you know what others think), overgeneralising from one event, and discounting positives.
Key things to know
Everyone thinks this way sometimes. Distortions become a problem when they are the default lens, because mood follows interpretation, not just events.
- Common ones: catastrophising, all-or-nothing thinking, mind reading, overgeneralising.
- Everyone has them; the problem is when they become the default lens.
- Mood follows interpretation, not just events.
- CBT counters them with evidence-checking, aiming for accuracy, not forced positivity.
- Naming the distortion out loud already loosens its grip.
What helps
CBT treats distortions by catching the thought, examining the evidence, and forming a more accurate alternative. The goal is accuracy, not forced positivity.
How SelfMind can help
SelfMind is an AI companion for everyday mental health support: a private place to talk through what you are feeling, in Hindi, English or Hinglish, at any hour. It is not therapy and not a crisis service; it works alongside professional care, never in place of it. You can try it free, no account needed.
Try a quiz
Meet Your Inner Critic. A short check-in related to cognitive distortions, with a personal result at the end. 2 minutes, free, no signup.
Related terms
This entry is educational information, not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment plan. For assessment and treatment, consult a qualified mental health professional. If you are in crisis, see our crisis resources. In India, Tele-MANAS is free at 14416, 24x7.