What if depression weren’t a disorder occurring on its own but was rather a kind of signpost pointing at tangible things you needed to change in your life? This would radically alter not only the way you think about depression but also the strategies you’d use to overcome it.
Behavioral activation therapy is built on this powerful, insightful assumption. Its techniques offer fast, effective relief from depression by guiding you to make positive and rewarding changes in your life. This simple, profound process reconnects you to the naturally occurring rewards of a well-lived life, which are powerful antidotes to feelings of depression.
The workbook’s engaging exercises create a structured framework in which you are encouraged to focus on those activities that will inspire you with feelings of pleasure, mastery, and engagement. Learn to develop a list of enjoyable activities or activities you need to engage in as a part of a normal and satisfying life. Begin with the easiest (or sometimes, the most indispensable) activities on your list, and learn how to tackle them one by one.
Michael E. Addis Ph.D., is associate professor of psychology at Clark University in Worcester, MA. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Washington in 1995. He has published over forty scientific articles and books on topics including depression, the...
Read MoreChristopher R. Martell, Ph.D., maintains a private practice in Seattle and is clinical associate professor of psychology at the University of Washington in Seattle, WA. He is board certified in clinical and behavioral psychology by the American Board of Professional...
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