Explain the role of coping statements in CBT and provide an example.

• A. Short, positive phrases used to counter negative thoughts and regulate distress; example: "This feeling will pass; I can handle this."
• B. They replace therapy.
• C. They are used to enforce avoidance.
• D. They are not used in CBT.

Answer: (A)

Coping statements in CBT are short, positive phrases that help counter negative automatic thoughts and calm distress in the moment. When a troubling thought or feeling spikes, these lines provide an immediate, workable alternative interpretation or a reminder to use a coping skill, which reduces arousal and keeps you engaged with the situation. They support cognitive restructuring by making it easier to shift from unhelpful beliefs to more balanced ones, and they can be handy during exposure or other challenging tasks to maintain action rather than avoidance. Effective coping statements are brief, in the present tense, personally meaningful, believable, and action-oriented. An example is: "This feeling will pass; I can handle this." This kind of line validates the emotion while reinforcing your sense of control and capability, making it easier to stay with the task and apply your coping skills. They are not meant to replace therapy or promote avoidance; instead, they complement treatment by strengthening coping and supporting progress.