Cognitive Distortions Infosheet | A Compassionate Guide to Unhelpful Thinking Patterns and Anxious Thoughts

If you’ve ever thought, “Why does my brain do this?” – this is for you.

When thoughts spiral, criticize, or jump to worst-case scenarios, it’s not because you’re broken or “overthinking.” It’s often because your brain has learned patterns that once helped you stay safe.

This Cognitive Distortions Infosheet helps you recognize those patterns without judgment, so you can respond to your thoughts with curiosity instead of shame!

This guide supports you in:

• Identifying unhelpful thinking patterns
  
• Understanding why those thoughts show up
  
• Creating distance from anxious or critical thoughts
  
• Practicing gentler, more neutral self-talk

Cognitive distortions are learned thinking habits that can distort reality and increase distress.

This infosheet covers 10 common patterns, including:

• Black-and-white thinking
  
• Catastrophizing
  
• Jumping to conclusions
  
• Selective attention or memory
  
• “Should” statements

The Cognitive Distortions Infosheet is rooted in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and aligns well with trauma-informed and parts-based work. 

It is helpful for individuals experiencing:

• Anxiety or racing thoughts
  
• Depression or low self-esteem
  
• Burnout or chronic stress
  
• Addiction recovery
  
• Chronic pain or chronic illness

It is also commonly used by:

• Therapists and counsellors
  
• Life coaches and educators
  
• School counsellors and psychologists

It works well as both a personal reference and a therapy office wall resource. 

◄ PRODUCT SIZING ►
📏8.5 x 11 inch PDF, 1 page
📥 Format: High-quality PDF digital download
🖨 Printing Options: Print for home or use digitally on a tablet

Limited Use:
This product is a digital download for personal use only. Sharing, redistribution or professional use without proper licensing is not permitted. 
Need to use this with clients, students or groups? Purchase a Commercial License separately:

https://alannacarlson.ca/products/commercial-license-resources-digital-download-for-therapist-wellness-coach-for-client-care-materials-for-session-treatment-pdf-digital