Worrying that the worst will happen is a common source of anxiety. Decatastrophizing interrupts this process by evaluating the likelihood of a fear coming true and one’s ability to cope if it does.
Our Decatastrophizing: Cognitive restructuring technique worksheet helps clients use logic and reason to counteract catastrophic thinking. When practiced consistently, this exercise reframes worst-case fears as unlikely scenarios that can usually be managed or accepted if they do occur. This promotes sounder thinking as well as greater resilience.
This classic CBT resource is ideal for clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, or fear-driven thinking.
To help clients get the most out of this exercise, discuss their answers in session and ask follow-up questions, such as:
- Have you had this same worry in the past? If so, how did things work out?
- If you had to put all your money on this worry coming true, would it be a safe bet?
- Imagine your best friend came to you with this worry... How would you advise them?
- If your worry does come true, what are some ways you could accept or cope with it?
In some cases, it may be helpful to keep the completed worksheet and bring it up once clients have moved on to another worry. This can be a powerful way of showing that worries often fade in importance and intensity over time.
