Preventing Depression | ||
Daniel Goleman- Theory of Emotional Intelligence Benefits of Exercise and Relaxation
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy- CBT Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a well known type of therapy used to fight depression. The literature has shown the successes of using this type of therapy with children. CBT incorporates practices that coincide with Goleman’s beliefs. CBT curriculum helps students to learn to think positively when a negative situation arises. They learn communication and problem solving techniques.
CBT uses three types of prevention. Primary prevention- targets children from entire population. The goal is to provide students with enhanced coping techniques and interpersonal skills. Students are taught to confront problems and are provided skills to solve them. Students gain a sense of achievement and control. Secondary prevention- targets students who have exhibited signs of depression. CBT works on providing a secure environment for these students which promotes success. Students are taught to recognize automatic thoughts and understand how they affect their moods. Students learn how to think rationally when a problem arises. Tertiary prevention- targets children who have developed symptoms of depression. Students are taught relaxation techniques. They learn to sit in a quiet place and are taught to breathe slowly while thinking positive thoughts.
CBT's cognitive component places an emphasis on helping children identify and interrupt negative and pessimistic thoughts, beliefs, biases, and causal attributions. CBT's behavioral component emphasizes increasing positive behavioral patterns through the use of good social and communication skills. Pleasurable activities help develop and maintain a positive mood. |