The Grouport Journal

Explore all things mental health. Check out some of our latest journals below.

5 Signs a DBT Skills Group is Exactly What You Need

DBT

5 Signs a DBT Skills Group is Exactly What You Need

Do you feel like you can’t get ahead? Like life is just beating you down, or that challenges are overwhelming you to the point of chronic, debilitating anxiety, depression, PTSD, disordered eating, insomnia, or other mental health concerns? Do you feel like your emotions run your life, and you’re exhausted by the ups and downs? If these experiences are familiar to you, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, or DBT, could be the solution you’re looking for. ‍If you’re unfamiliar with this type of tre

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How DBT Skills Help With Everyday Stressors

DBT

How DBT Skills Help With Everyday Stressors

No matter who you are, the reality is that you will eventually deal with stress of some kind. This is a simple fact of human existence. Jobs, children, relationships, health, driving, you name it - everyone will experience stress.‍Unmanaged stress can increase your risk of conditions like obesity, heart disease, Alzheimers’s, depression, GI problems, diabetes, and asthma, along with chronic physical symptoms like headaches, nausea, and insomnia. ‍When looking to manage stress, it’s importan

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DBT Skills for Developing Self-Compassion

DBT

DBT Skills for Developing Self-Compassion

Although not frequently discussed when referring to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training, self-compassion is a beneficial and powerful side effect of this specialized type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). ‍Part of the reason DBT can result in a greater sense of self-compassion is that throughout the DBT modules, students will learn to activate their “wise mind,” which is essentially a stronger and more powerful awareness of yourself, your emotions, your instincts, and yo

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DBT Skills for Coping With Job Loss

DBT

DBT Skills for Coping With Job Loss

Careers fulfill a number of functions in our lives, including satisfying our need to achieve, bringing us income, creating a sense of belonging and stability, and helping us to feel empowered and accomplished. Therefore, when losing a job (which can often be so integrated with your identity), we can notice an immediate and significant decline in your mental health. According to a Gallup poll in 2013, unemployed Americans are more than 2x as likely to be treated for depression as those with full-

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Understanding Anxiety Disorders and the Power of DBT

DBT

Understanding Anxiety Disorders and the Power of DBT

Anxiety disorders are one of the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions. These disorders take various forms, each with distinct characteristics and symptoms. Fortunately, therapeutic approaches like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provide effective treatment options. Additionally, according to the U.S. Dept of Health & Human Services, there are five significant types of anxiety conditions, which will cover here. This article will delve into five common types of anxiety disorders and discuss how DBT can aid in managing their symptoms.

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How DBT Skills Help With Climate Anxiety

DBT

How DBT Skills Help With Climate Anxiety

As concerns rise for our climate and the future of our world, so does the anxiety that’s sweeping the planet. Increases in frequency of widespread wildfires and the length of wildfire season, along with rising temperatures and shifts in weather patterns leave many concerned and considering the long-term consequences for the Earth as well as the mental health of those who inhabit it. ‍The sobering ramifications of climate change are real, and present. It’s normal to react to these with emoti

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Utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Anxiety Regulation: Three Quick Skills

DBT

Utilizing Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Anxiety Regulation: Three Quick Skills

Anxiety can be an overwhelming and pervasive mental health challenge, affecting millions worldwide. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), emphasizing practical skills for managing distress and regulating emotions, can be useful for those looking to control their anxiety better. This article will highlight three quick DBT skills that can be used to regulate anxiety: "STOP," "TIPP," and "Wise Mind."

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How to Use DBT Skills to Cope in Crisis

DBT

How to Use DBT Skills to Cope in Crisis

If you’ve ever felt your emotions are so completely overwhelming that you can’t restabilize yourself and may return to unhealthy or high risk behaviors, DBT can help.  Helping individuals to cope in crisis situations is one of the primary goals of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). The skills and tools taught throughout DBT can be used in a variety of circumstances and throughout many daily experiences to minimize stress and reduce emotional suffering. If you’re dealing with a high-st

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DBT Skills to Know - Setting Goals

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Setting Goals

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was originally created for the treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder by Marsha Linehan in the 1970’s. This structured variation on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy consists of what is often a year-long process of walking through the four main modules, and usually involves both group therapy, individual therapy, and even on-call phone consultations to mitigate crisis situations in the patient’s life as they may arise. ‍While the initial phase of DBT invo

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DBT Skills to Know - Non-Judgmental Stance

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Non-Judgmental Stance

Developing a non-judgmental way of thinking is a critical component of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training, and falls under the Mindfulness module. Mindfulness helps teach participants to observe their own behavior, thoughts and feelings, and to stay grounded and present in the moment. Learning how to do this is the first step in developing new behaviors and making healthy changes. ‍The Mindfulness module of DBT focuses on our need to improve self-observation and awareness th

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DBT Skills to Know - Self-Soothing

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Self-Soothing

The Distress Tolerance module of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) incorporates a number of types of Distress Tolerance skills designed to help distract us and get us through challenging emotions in situations where we feel a loss of control. Decreasing emotional distress as a symptom of situational challenges is one of the primary goals of DBT. There are a number of skills trainings that go into the Distress Tolerance module which can help with this, including: ‍ACCEPTSTIP IMPRO

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How DBT Helps with Bipolar Disorder

DBT

How DBT Helps with Bipolar Disorder

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques are being used in increasing measure in the treatment of various mood disorders and mental health conditions beyond their original intended use (for Borderline Personality Disorder), including for Bipolar Disorder. Bipolar Disorder is a highly recurrent and disabling condition marked by major depressive state and manic episodes. ‍The reason DBT shows evidence of success in treatment of Bipolar Disorder is likely because there is growing reason t

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Minimizing Symptoms of PTSD

DBT

Minimizing Symptoms of PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and intrusive thoughts about the event. While PTSD is a serious condition, there are effective ways to minimize its symptoms and regain control over one's life. This article will explore strategies for reducing symptoms of PTSD, including mindfulness, exposure therapy, and cognitive restructuring.

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DBT Skills to Know - Emotional Regulation

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Emotional Regulation

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches critical skills relative to Emotional Regulation, which is arguably relevant for people of all backgrounds, behavior types, and with or without mental health conditions. We can all benefit from greater emotional regulation. ‍While emotions are important and feelings are relative in our relationships and day to day life and processing (they help us communicate and understand our experiences), they can also create a great deal of emotional suffering

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DBT Skills to Know - Radical Acceptance

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - Radical Acceptance

The concept of Radical Acceptance is rooted in the idea that all suffering originated not in pain, but in our attachment to pain. In fact, Radical Acceptance has origins in Buddhism with the tenant that relief from suffering begins first and foremost with acceptance. ‍As a Dialectical Behavior Therapy skill, Radical Acceptance refers to the ability to accept our situation when the circumstances are out of our control, which can reduce the suffering we feel. Instead of being attached to our

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DBT Skills to Know - How to Think and Act Dialectically

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - How to Think and Act Dialectically

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is, at its core, founded upon principles of Dialectical thinking, which involves an integration of two foundational opposites: acceptance and change. ‍Learning to think and act in a dialectical manner can open up your thought process and increase your awareness of the different nuances in the world around you, rather than allowing you to exist in extreme black and whites. Extreme highs and lows are what drive many of the mental health conditions DBT is use

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DBT Skills to Know - What is a “Wise Mind”?

DBT

DBT Skills to Know - What is a “Wise Mind”?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), is a specific type of psychotherapy under the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy umbrella that was curated for Borderline Personality Disorder. However, this type of therapy has been proven to be successful in the treatment of a myriad of other mental health conditions, including but not limited to anyone struggling with: Overwhelming emotions.Impulsive behavior.Self injury.Suicidal thoughts.Substance abuse.Eating disorders.PTSD and other trauma disorders.&nbsp

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How DBT Skills Help Manage Eating Disorders

DBT

How DBT Skills Help Manage Eating Disorders

Over 28.8 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. Eating disorders are generally classified as a type of mental illness characterized by harmful behaviors related to food. Those with eating disorders (such as bulimia, anorexia, binge eating, ad more) usually struggle with impulsivity, compulsive behaviors, negative body image, and even coexisting conditions like depression, anxiety, and more. ‍Eating disorders are the second most deadly mental illness (the first is

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How DBT Helps with Managing Anxiety Disorders

DBT

How DBT Helps with Managing Anxiety Disorders

These days over 18% of US adults are living with an anxiety disorder. For many people living with chronic anxiety, experiencing a daily, significant and ongoing sense of fear or anxiety can lead to restlessness, panic attacks, isolation, poor sleep, and physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, body aches, stomach pain, and more. These and a host of other symptoms can be debilitating and may significantly decrease the sufferer’s quality of life. ‍Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is usu

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Essential Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills: Distress Tolerance and Mindfulness

DBT

Essential Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills: Distress Tolerance and Mindfulness

Are you interested in learning more about Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)? This unique form of psychotherapy - a variation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can be used for a wide variety of mental health issues and conditions. While DBT was specifically developed for treating individuals who have difficulty managing and regulating their own emotions, (such as with Borderline Personality Disorder), this treatment type has also been proven to be effective for a variety of other condi

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Fostering Familial Relationships: The Journey to Being a Better Son

Mental Health

Fostering Familial Relationships: The Journey to Being a Better Son

Family relationships play an essential role in shaping who we are. The bond between a parent and a son is a critical aspect of this, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and mutual understanding. This article explores the key principles and actions that contribute to becoming a better son, thereby enhancing familial bonds.

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Cultivating Connections: Strategies for Being a Better Sibling

Relationship Issues

Cultivating Connections: Strategies for Being a Better Sibling

Sibling relationships hold a unique place in the tapestry of family dynamics, ranging from companionship and shared experiences to competition and conflict. Despite these complexities, being a good sibling can enrich your life and contribute to the well-being of your family. This article outlines strategies to improve your relationship with your siblings and become a more understanding, compassionate, and supportive family member.

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Path to Personal Growth: Essential Steps to Becoming a Better Person

Personal Growth

Path to Personal Growth: Essential Steps to Becoming a Better Person

Personal growth and becoming a better person is a lifelong journey that evolves as we encounter new experiences, challenges, and perspectives. Though subjective and unique to each individual, certain universal aspects can guide us on this path. This article elucidates key strategies to personal improvement and becoming the best version of yourself.

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Cultivating Professional Excellence: How to be a Better Coworker

Relationship Issues

Cultivating Professional Excellence: How to be a Better Coworker

In every professional sphere, the role we play as coworkers significantly contributes to the overall work environment, productivity, and job satisfaction, not only for us but for the entire team. Being a good coworker is about fostering respectful relationships, facilitating teamwork, and contributing to a positive workplace culture. This article highlights key strategies to become a better coworker and a valuable team player.

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Elevating Your Career: Steps to Becoming a Better Employee

Relationship Issues

Elevating Your Career: Steps to Becoming a Better Employee

Whether you're just starting your career journey or are an experienced professional, there's always room for improvement. Becoming a better employee isn't just about increasing your output or hitting targets. It's a multidimensional process involving various skills and attitudes, from fostering better relationships with colleagues to honing your work ethics. This article will guide you through essential steps to enhance your value as an employee and maximize your career growth.

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Mastering Leadership: Pathways to Becoming a Better Boss

Relationship Issues

Mastering Leadership: Pathways to Becoming a Better Boss

A boss's role goes beyond task delegation and decision-making. Being a boss means being a leader, a guide, and a mentor who cultivates an environment conducive to growth, creativity, and success. This article explores key strategies that can enhance your leadership skills and help you become a better boss.

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Navigating Negativity: Understanding Why People Can Be Mean

Mental Health

Navigating Negativity: Understanding Why People Can Be Mean

Negativity, rudeness, or outright hostility can sometimes seem rampant in our society. While it's never pleasant to deal with mean people, understanding the reasons behind such behavior can help us better cope with these challenging situations. This article delves into the various factors that might contribute to why some people can be so mean.

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Navigating the Complex Landscape of Fearful-Avoidant Attachment

Mental Health

Navigating the Complex Landscape of Fearful-Avoidant Attachment

Attachment theory, a cornerstone in modern psychology, suggests that the bonds formed between children and their caregivers set the foundation for future relationships. Among various attachment styles, fearful-avoidant attachment stands out as a complex and often challenging pattern to navigate. This article delves into the nature of fearful-avoidant attachment, its origins, manifestations, and strategies for addressing it.

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The Pain Cycle: Understanding the Principle of 'Hurt People Hurt People'

Mental Health

The Pain Cycle: Understanding the Principle of 'Hurt People Hurt People'

A common sentiment expressed in psychology and popular culture is the concept that "hurt people hurt people." While simplistic, this phrase captures the profound truth about the cyclical nature of emotional pain and its role in human behavior. The following article delves into this principle, explaining its meaning, the underlying psychological mechanisms, and potential ways to break the cycle.

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Navigating the Crossroads: Identity Versus Role Confusion in Adolescence

Personal Growth

Navigating the Crossroads: Identity Versus Role Confusion in Adolescence

Adolescence is a critical time for psychological development, and one of the key tasks during this phase is the formation of a coherent identity. Renowned developmental psychologist Erik Erikson framed this challenge as a struggle between identity and role confusion. Understanding this stage in Erickson's psychosocial theory can provide vital insight into adolescent behavior and the journey to self-discovery.

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Unraveling the High-Conflict Personality: Understanding and Navigating Turbulent Interactions

Mental Health

Unraveling the High-Conflict Personality: Understanding and Navigating Turbulent Interactions

The world of interpersonal relationships is complex, and it can become even more challenging when one encounters a high-conflict personality (HCP). Characterized by a persistent pattern of disruptive behavior, individuals with HCP often leave a trail of conflict in their wake. This article dives deep into the concept of high-conflict personality, its impacts, and strategies to manage interactions with HCP individuals effectively.

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Self-Reflection and Understanding: Do I Have Anger Issues?

Anger Management

Self-Reflection and Understanding: Do I Have Anger Issues?

Feelings of anger are a normal part of human emotions. However, when it becomes persistent, difficult to control, or leads to aggressive behavior or destructive consequences, it could signify a deeper problem. Understanding whether you have anger issues can help you seek the appropriate support and learn to manage your anger healthily and effectively.

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Understanding the Dimensions: The Meaning of Big Ego

Personal Growth

Understanding the Dimensions: The Meaning of Big Ego

Ego is a fundamental part of human psychology, affecting how we perceive ourselves and how we interact with the world around us. While a balanced ego is necessary for healthy self-esteem and confidence, an inflated or 'big' ego can lead to a skewed self-perception and problematic interpersonal relationships. Let's delve into the understanding of what it means to have a big ego.

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The Possibilities of Change: Can Narcissism Be Cured?

Mental Health

The Possibilities of Change: Can Narcissism Be Cured?

Narcissism, particularly in its extreme form known as Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD), is a complex psychological condition characterized by grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. A frequently asked question in relation to this condition is whether narcissism can be 'cured'. While there are no definitive answers, understanding the nature of narcissism and the available treatment options can shed light on this critical issue.

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Understanding the Crowd: A Deep Dive into Mob Mentality

Mental Health

Understanding the Crowd: A Deep Dive into Mob Mentality

Mob mentality, also known as herd mentality or crowd psychology, refers to a phenomenon where individuals in a large group abandon their individual thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors in favor of the collective mindset. This complex social dynamic often leads to actions that the individuals might not engage in if acting alone. A comprehensive examination of this phenomenon can shed light on its psychological underpinnings and effects.

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Guided Change: Pathways to Overcoming Controlling Behavior

Mental Health

Guided Change: Pathways to Overcoming Controlling Behavior

Being controlling can strain relationships and limit personal growth. It often stems from deep-seated fears and insecurities, leading individuals to seek control as a coping mechanism. The path to overcoming controlling behavior begins with self-awareness, followed by active strategies to cultivate trust and autonomy. This article provides insights into understanding and changing controlling behavior.

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 Narcissist Father: Understanding and Dealing with Paternal Narcissism

Relationship Issues

Narcissist Father: Understanding and Dealing with Paternal Narcissism

Narcissistic behavior is a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. When it exists within a paternal figure, the impact on children and the family dynamic can be profound and long-lasting. This article aims to delve into the complexities of having a narcissistic father, understanding the effects, and strategies for dealing with this challenging relationship.

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Narcissist's Apology: Unveiling its Characteristics and Implications

Relationship Issues

Narcissist's Apology: Unveiling its Characteristics and Implications

In the intricate dance of human interaction, apologies play a vital role. They mend rifts, acknowledge wrongdoing, and restore harmony. Yet, when it comes to narcissists, apologies often serve a different function. This article aims to unravel the complexity of the narcissist's apology, shedding light on its unique characteristics and the implications for those on the receiving end.

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Existential Anguish: Grappling with the Pain of Existence

Depression

Existential Anguish: Grappling with the Pain of Existence

Life, with its myriad experiences, emotions, and encounters, is a complex journey. At times, the weight of existence itself can feel overwhelmingly painful. This feeling, often referred to as existential anguish or existential pain, is not uncommon. This article delves into the concept of existential anguish, exploring its roots, manifestations, and potential ways to navigate this profound aspect of human life.

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Navigating Disappointment: Understanding and Managing Feelings of Disappointment in People

Depression

Navigating Disappointment: Understanding and Managing Feelings of Disappointment in People

In the journey of life, moments of disappointment are inevitable. Whether it's a close friend who let you down, a family member who didn't meet your expectations, or a colleague who failed to keep a promise, disappointment in people is a universal experience. This article aims to explore the roots of this emotion, its impact, and how one can effectively manage feelings of disappointment.

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