Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Worksheet
Patient Information
- Age: 18-24 years
- Condition: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) with symptoms of depression, self-harm, and low self-esteem
- Therapy Experience: Extensive (21+ sessions)
- Current Medication: Mood Stabilizers
- Needed Behavioral Change: None specified
Goal Setting
Short-Term Goals (Next 1-3 months)
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Increase Coping Skills:
- Identify and practice one new coping mechanism each week.
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Reduce Self-Harm Episodes:
- Track instances of self-harm and aim to reduce them by 50% within three months.
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Enhance Emotional Awareness:
- Maintain a daily feelings journal to record emotional responses and triggers.
Long-Term Goals (Next 6-12 months)
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Improve Self-Esteem:
- Engage in one self-affirming activity daily, focusing on positive self-talk.
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Develop a Support System:
- Identify at least three reliable individuals for emotional support and connection.
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Facilitate Relaxation Techniques:
- Practice mindfulness or relaxation exercises for 15 minutes daily.
Cognitive Restructuring
Identify Negative Thoughts
- List negative thoughts that frequently arise.
- “I’m not good enough.”
- “No one cares about me.”
- “I will never feel better.”
Challenge Negative Thoughts
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Evaluate evidence for and against each thought.
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Thought: “I’m not good enough.”
- Evidence For: I have struggled in school and relationships.
- Evidence Against: I have achieved goals in the past and have supportive friends.
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Thought: “No one cares about me.”
- Evidence For: I sometimes feel alone.
- Evidence Against: My family checks in on me, and I have supportive friends.
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Thought: “I will never feel better.”
- Evidence For: The pain feels overwhelming at times.
- Evidence Against: I have made progress in therapy and learned new coping skills.
Reframe Negative Thoughts
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Write more balanced, realistic thoughts.
- “I have strengths and have accomplished things.”
- “My friends and family care about me, and I can reach out when I need support.”
- “Healing is a journey, and I am making progress, even if it feels slow.”
Behavioral Activation
Identify Activities
- List activities that bring you joy or a sense of accomplishment.
- Listening to music
- Going for a walk
- Reading a book
- Creative writing
Create a Weekly Plan
| Day |
Activity |
Time |
| Monday |
Listen to favorite music |
30 minutes |
| Tuesday |
Walk in the park |
1 hour |
| Wednesday |
Read a book |
1 chapter |
| Thursday |
Write in journal |
15 minutes |
| Friday |
Call a friend |
20 minutes |
| Saturday |
Creative writing |
30 minutes |
| Sunday |
Relaxation exercises (guided) |
15 minutes |
Coping Strategies
Relaxation Techniques
- Practice Deep Breathing: Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale through your mouth for a count of six.
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Tense each muscle group for five seconds, then relax.
- Mindfulness Meditation: Focus on the present moment, acknowledging thoughts without judgment.
Emergency Coping Plan
- Recognize triggers leading to self-harm.
- Create a list of coping strategies to engage when in crisis (e.g., calling a friend, going for a walk, engaging in a hobby).
- List emergency contacts for immediate support.
Conclusion
This worksheet provides a structured approach to tackle the various challenges faced by individuals dealing with PTSD, depression, self-harm, and low self-esteem. It encourages the patient to set actionable goals, challenge negative thoughts, engage in enjoyable activities, and develop coping strategies. Regularly reviewing and updating this worksheet can aid in sustaining progress and enhancing the therapeutic experience.