Feeling Good The New Mood Therapy, David D. Burns, M.D.
Book Review
David D. Burns’ Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy is a classic self-help book that revolutionised the field of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and continues to resonate with readers over forty years after its initial publication. Grounded in the principles of CBT, Feeling Good aims to provide readers with practical, accessible tools to alleviate depression, anxiety, and related mood disorders. Its straightforward and empathetic approach makes it both approachable for readers new to therapy and valuable as a supplement to professional treatment.
One of the book’s key strengths is its scientific foundation. Burns, a psychiatrist with extensive experience and a disciple of Aaron T. Beck, the founding father of CBT, breaks down the complex psychological processes underlying depression into relatable, understandable terms. He presents the concept that our emotions are often a result of our thoughts rather than our circumstances. Therefore, by changing distorted or irrational thoughts, we can improve our emotional well-being. This approach is particularly empowering because it suggests that we hold the key to managing our mood and mental health.
Burns introduces readers to common cognitive distortions that contribute to negative thinking and mood disorders. These include all-or-nothing thinking, overgeneralisation, jumping to conclusions, and magnification of the negative. Burns explains these distortions in clear, non-judgmental language, allowing readers to see themselves in the examples provided without feeling blamed or criticised. By identifying these patterns in their own thinking, readers can begin to recognise how automatic, habitual thought processes contribute to their struggles and, crucially, how they can change them.
The exercises and techniques in Feeling Good are simple yet effective, making the book feel more like a practical workbook than a theoretical text. For example, Burns encourages readers to engage in daily mood logs and thought records, where they can practice identifying and challenging their distorted thoughts. These exercises allow for hands-on application of the concepts, which can be invaluable in helping readers to feel an immediate sense of progress. While the commitment required to complete these exercises may be a challenge for some, Burns’s encouragement and clear guidance help readers persevere.
A criticism of Feeling Good may be that it underestimates the depth of some individuals’ mental health challenges, particularly in cases of severe or chronic depression. Burns’s methods can be highly effective, but not everyone will experience significant improvement through self-help alone. Additionally, the book’s focus on self-directed therapy might not be sufficient for those dealing with deep-rooted traumas or complex psychological disorders. For these individuals, professional therapy is recommended as a supplement to the strategies in Feeling Good.
Another limitation of Feeling Good lies in its writing style, which can feel slightly repetitive and overly technical in parts. Burns’s enthusiasm for CBT is apparent, but his detailed explanations may feel cumbersome to those who are looking for concise, straightforward guidance. However, this repetition is likely intentional, reinforcing core concepts and techniques to ensure that readers fully understand them before moving forward.
In summary, Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy remains a valuable resource for individuals looking to understand and improve their mental health. Its insights into cognitive processes and hands-on approach make it a helpful tool for those dealing with mild to moderate mood disturbances. While it may not be a panacea for all, its foundational strategies in cognitive restructuring have empowered countless readers, making it an enduring and respected work in self-help, counselling, social work and other mental health disciplines.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward feeling better, I invite you to reach out and make an appointment. Together, we can explore practical tools and strategies, like those in Feeling Good, to help you find relief and create lasting change.