What is a common goal of cognitive-behavioral therapy in managing psychosis?

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and one common goal in managing psychosis is to modify harmful thought patterns. Individuals experiencing psychosis often have distorted perceptions and beliefs about themselves, others, and the world, which can exacerbate symptoms and impair functioning. Through CBT, patients learn to identify and challenge these maladaptive thought processes, replacing them with more rational and helpful thinking. This reframing can reduce the severity of psychotic symptoms and improve overall mental health outcomes.

The importance of addressing these harmful thought patterns lies in empowering individuals to gain insight into their condition and develop coping strategies that can enhance their ability to manage their symptoms. By focusing on cognitive patterns, CBT helps individuals to better understand their experiences, thereby reducing anxiety and stress related to their psychotic symptoms. Ultimately, the goal is to improve functioning and quality of life through effective cognitive restructuring and behavioral strategies.