Providers can incorporate cognitive restructuring techniques into HIPAA compliant texts, helping patients develop healthier thought patterns and coping strategies. Ultimately, addressing negative thought patterns and promoting positive thinking can help patients manage their mental health more effectively.
What is cognitive restructuring?
Healthline defines cognitive restructuring as “a group of therapeutic techniques that help people notice and change negative thinking patterns.”
Further explaining, “Most people experience negative thought patterns from time to time, but sometimes these patterns become so entrenched that they interfere with relationships, achievements, and even well-being.”
More specifically, cognitive restructuring is based on CBT principles and addresses cognitive distortions or “habitual errors in thinking”. Healthline states, “Most people experience cognitive distortions from time to time. But if they’re reinforced often enough, they can increase anxiety, deepen depression, cause relationship difficulties, and lead to other complications.”
So, providers can use cognitive restructuring to help patients “deconstruct unhelpful thoughts and rebuild them in a more balanced and accurate way.”
Related: How text messages can improve cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) in individuals with depression
Is cognitive restructuring effective?
Yes, cognitive restructuring is “a well-studied talk therapy approach that can effectively treat many mental health conditions, like depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, substance use disorders, and personality disorders”, according to Healthline.
Using HIPAA compliant text messaging
Providers can incorporate cognitive restructuring into HIPAA compliant texts to help patients challenge their negative thoughts and adopt healthier perspectives. More specifically, HIPAA compliant texts can be tailored to help patients recognize and reframe cognitive distortions, equipping them with valuable coping skills and overall well-being.
Ultimately, addressing cognitive distortions with empathy and understanding can facilitate meaningful dialogue and enhance patient engagement.
Examples of addressing cognitive distortions
Black-and-white thinking: Patients may see a situation in strict, all-or-nothing terms without considering shades of gray. For example, if they miss a scheduled appointment they respond, "I always mess things up. I'm such a failure." Providers can address this by sending a HIPAA compliant restructured text like: "It's understandable that you missed the appointment. Life gets busy sometimes. Let's work together to find a time that suits you better."
Catastrophizing: Some patients expect the worst possible outcome from a situation, often blowing things out of proportion. For example, they have a mild headache after starting a new medication and send a text: "I'm sure this headache means I have a serious condition. I'm terrified." The provider can then respond with “It's not uncommon to experience side effects when starting a new medication. Let's monitor it closely, remember, I'm here to help."
Overgeneralization: When a patient draws sweeping conclusions based on limited evidence or isolated incidents. For example, if a patient’s glucose levels are slightly elevated, they could say: "My diabetes is getting out of control. I'll never be able to manage it." Their provider could then send a restructured HIPAA compliant text like: "Fluctuations in glucose levels can happen for various reasons. Let's explore potential triggers and adjust your management plan accordingly. We've managed challenges before, and we can do it again."
Personalization: In this cognitive distortion, patients often take responsibility for events that are beyond their control. So, if their family member cancels an appointment on their behalf, they would say: "I should have reminded them. It's my fault." Their provider can respond by stating: "It's unfortunate that the appointment was canceled. Remember, you're not responsible for others' actions. Let's reschedule and focus on moving forward."
FAQs
Can cognitive restructuring be used in HIPAA compliant text messages?
Yes, integrating cognitive restructuring promotes clear, empathetic communication while respecting patients' privacy and aligning with HIPAA regulation
Do providers need patient consent before texting patients?
Yes, patients must provide informed consent, acknowledging the risks and benefits of HIPAA compliant text messaging.
What security measures are needed in HIPAA compliant text messaging?
Providers must use a HIPAA compliant platform, like Paubox, that uses encryption, access controls, secure login procedures, and audit trails to secure patient information and prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.
