Cognitive behavioral approaches to coping with suffering and hardship

Abstract

Introduction

Low level of ability to endure discomfort, hardship and distress, which are integral parts of adverse life events, may lead to loss of mental stability and maintenance of psychological disorder.

Method

Review of literature and case descriptions.

Results

The patient often tries to cope with their suffering through avoidance and compensatory behavior which may relieve his suffering immediately; however, in the long term, it leads to the deterioration in the quality of his life and the persistence of suffering. Cognitive behavioral approaches focused on increasing the ability to endure unpleasant and distressful life experiences, allow the patient to better bear the inevitable losses in life, which he is exposed to, endure his anxiety, sadness, and the urge to impulsive action or escape; so the patient have more possibilities to act more freely, functionally and purposefully. Modern cognitive behavioral approaches, such as Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy developed and applied therapeutic methods designed to increase the patient's resistance to suffering and his ability to cope it better. These approaches are applied not only in patients with chronic psychiatric disorders, but also in patients with chronic physical illnesses and permanent disability.

Conclusions

The modern CBT strategies can help patients to increase his/her resistance to the distress, discomfort and suffering.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.