Core Beliefs: What They Are & How They Impact Your Mental Health

Core beliefs are something that often come up during the course of therapy. They come up because we live in a world that influences our core beliefs to often be deeply flawed. This often leads to emotional distress.
Core belief are our deeply held beliefs about ourselves that influence the way we interact with others and interpret events. Our core beliefs are, as the name implies, at the very core of how we see ourselves and what we believe ourselves to be.
These beliefs are held deeply and yet without introspection we do not know what they are. Our core beliefs are what are often activated in times of stress or relational discord. If you’ve ever said or thought something and wondered “where did that come from?” you’ve likely experienced an activation of a core belief.
Your core beliefs can be negative: “I’m not good enough” “I’m unlovable” “I’m not capable”
Your core beliefs can be positive: “I am capable” “I am lovable” “I am enough”
These core beliefs are seen in the way we think about situations: “I won’t make the team because I am not good enough for them.” “I don’t make friends because people don’t like me.” “I can never do anything right.” “I always say the wrong thing.”
It is important to know our core beliefs because of how strongly they influence our mood, actions, and thoughts about ourselves. If you approach situations with the belief that “I’m unlovable” you are likely to feel depressed and/or anxious.
A great way to determine your core beliefs might be to talk to a trusted friend or a counselor. A counselor can help you explore where in your history your core beliefs stem from and can help you learn how to change your core beliefs. 

If you are interested in making an appointment with one of our counselors at Bethel Haven and learning more about your core beliefs, please call us at 706.310.9046 to schedule an appointment.