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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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-

Read More

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.

Read More

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

Read More

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."

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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.

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

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

Read More

Tackling the Complexity of Depression and Insomnia

Depression

Tackling the Complexity of Depression and Insomnia

Insomnia and depression are intertwined in a complex relationship, where each condition can exacerbate the other. Understanding the intricate connection between these two disorders can be critical in managing and overcoming them. In this article, we explore the relationship between depression and insomnia, their common symptoms, and potential treatment approaches.

All Journals

Read More

Navigating the Connection Between Depression and Headaches

Depression

Navigating the Connection Between Depression and Headaches

Depression and headaches often come hand in hand, creating a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break. Understanding the intricate connection between these two conditions can shed light on their causes, manifestations, and potential treatments.

All Journals

Read More

The Complex Connection: Caffeine and Depression

Depression

The Complex Connection: Caffeine and Depression

Caffeine, a naturally occurring stimulant found in coffee, tea, and other consumables, has become a staple in many people's lives. Despite the immediate energy boost it provides, its impact on mental health, particularly depression, has become a topic of increasing interest among researchers. This article seeks to explore the complex relationship between caffeine and depression.

All Journals

Read More

A Complex Duo: The Intersection of Chronic Pain and Depression

Depression

A Complex Duo: The Intersection of Chronic Pain and Depression

Chronic pain and depression form a complex relationship that deeply impacts a person's quality of life. Living with persistent pain not only limits physical abilities but also takes a significant toll on mental health. This article delves into the deep-seated connection between chronic pain and depression, examining their reciprocal influence, implications, and potential treatment approaches.

All Journals

Read More

Counseling for Depression: A Holistic Approach

Depression

Counseling for Depression: A Holistic Approach

In the rapidly evolving mental health landscape, counseling for depression remains a vital and practical approach. Depression, a widely prevalent and debilitating condition, can dramatically impede one's quality of life. Thus, it becomes crucial to understand the significance of counseling as an essential part of depression treatment. This article focuses on the ins and outs of depression counseling, its benefits, methods, and the role of a mental health counselor in this process.

All Journals

Read More

The Overlap of Dementia and Depression

Depression

The Overlap of Dementia and Depression

Dementia and depression are two prominent mental health conditions that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, particularly in later years. This article seeks to provide a better understanding of the complex relationship between these two conditions, the shared symptoms, and the available treatment options.

All Journals

Read More

Understanding and Supporting a Depressed Husband

Depression

Understanding and Supporting a Depressed Husband

Husbands, like millions of individuals globally, can be affected by depression, a severe mental health condition. As a matter of fact, research has shown that the impact of depression from.a spouse can present significant life changes and challenges. Noticing depressive signs in your spouse and comprehending how to provide him with support can greatly contribute to his path to recovery. This article is designed to offer guidance on managing this demanding circumstance.

All Journals

Read More

Understanding Depression Crying Spells

Depression

Understanding Depression Crying Spells

Crying spells are among the most distressing symptoms of depression, a pervasive mental health condition impacting millions across the globe. Comprehending these emotional episodes and finding strategies to manage them represents an essential stride towards regaining control over one's mental well-being.

All Journals

Read More

Depression and Neurotransmitters: The Connection Explained

Depression

Depression and Neurotransmitters: The Connection Explained

Neurotransmitters, the chemicals that transmit signals from a neuron to a target cell across a synapse, play a pivotal role in the biology of depression, a complex mental health disorder. Experts believe that this multifaceted condition arises from an interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Gaining insights into the functioning and influence of neurotransmitters on depression is essential for understanding the intricacies of this disorder.

All Journals

Read More

Exploring Dissociation and Depression: A Detailed Examination

Depression

Exploring Dissociation and Depression: A Detailed Examination

Dissociation and depression are two distinct but sometimes overlapping mental health conditions. While dissociation refers to a disconnection between a person's thoughts, memories, surroundings, actions, and identity, depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. This article will explore these conditions, their relationship, and their management approaches.

All Journals

Read More

Boosting Mental Health: The Role of Exercise in Alleviating Depression

Depression

Boosting Mental Health: The Role of Exercise in Alleviating Depression

Exercise is universally recognized for its numerous physical benefits, from maintaining a healthy weight to reducing the risk of heart disease. However, the mental health benefits of exercise, especially its effectiveness in mitigating symptoms of depression, are gaining more attention. This article explores how exercise can contribute to managing and reducing depression symptoms.

All Journals

Read More

The Role of Dopamine in Depression

Depression

The Role of Dopamine in Depression

Dopamine, a key neurotransmitter in the brain, holds significant sway over mood and emotional regulation and is intricately tied to the pervasive and multifaceted mental health disorder known as depression. Depression's development and progression are impacted by a myriad of factors such as genetic predispositions, environmental circumstances, life incidents, and the overall biochemistry of the brain. Among the chemical messengers of the brain, dopamine stands out due to its substantial role in the trajectory of depression. This discussion illuminates the crucial function of dopamine in the context of depression, shedding light on their complex interrelation.

All Journals

Read More

The Influence of Altitude on Depression

Depression

The Influence of Altitude on Depression

The connection between one's environment and mental health is widely recognized. The places we live can impact our mood, stress levels, and overall mental well-being in profound ways. This article delves into the relationship between living at high altitudes and the prevalence of depression, elucidating how geographical factors can intersect with mental health.

All Journals

Read More

Navigating the Waves: Understanding Depression Relapse

Depression

Navigating the Waves: Understanding Depression Relapse

Depression is not always a one-time occurrence. For many individuals, it is a chronic condition marked by periods of improvement followed by episodes of relapse. A depression relapse, defined as the return of depressive symptoms after a period of recovery, can be a challenging and disheartening experience. To navigate these waves successfully, understanding the nature of depression relapse, its risk factors, and strategies for prevention is essential.

All Journals

Read More

Depression and Weight Loss: A Closer Look

Depression

Depression and Weight Loss: A Closer Look

Depression, a widespread mental health condition, can influence various aspects of an individual's life, including their weight. One symptom often associated with depression is weight loss, which can lead to serious health complications if left unaddressed. This article provides an in-depth examination of depression and weight loss, offering insights into the reasons behind this symptom, its implications, and how to manage it effectively.

All Journals

Read More

Nutrition and Mood: A Guide to a Depression-Friendly Diet

Depression

Nutrition and Mood: A Guide to a Depression-Friendly Diet

Depression is a complex disorder affected by various elements, among which diet plays a significant role. While food cannot singlehandedly eradicate depression, implementing thoughtful nutritional habits can assist in controlling its symptoms and enhancing mental wellbeing. In this write-up, we will explore the interplay between dietary habits and depression, examine vital dietary constituents impacting mood, and provide guidance for formulating a diet that caters to managing depression.

All Journals

Read More

Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Treatment Option for Severe Depression

Depression

Electroconvulsive Therapy: A Treatment Option for Severe Depression

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a type of medical treatment typically used for patients with severe depression who have not responded to other forms of therapy. It involves the use of electrical currents to stimulate the brain, inducing a brief seizure that can lead to changes in brain chemistry and alleviate symptoms of depression. This article sheds light on ECT as a therapeutic option for depression, exploring how it works, its efficacy, potential side effects, and its role in the broader treatment landscape.

All Journals

Read More

Moving Forward: Exercise as a Tool in Managing Depression

Depression

Moving Forward: Exercise as a Tool in Managing Depression

Exercise plays a critical and often undervalued role in managing depression, a severe mental health condition affecting numerous individuals worldwide. While psychotherapy and medication are common treatments, incorporating regular physical activity into one's daily routine can be a significant tool in managing depressive symptoms. In this article, we will explore the benefits of physical exercise in relation to depression, discuss types of exercises that might be helpful, and offer advice on how to embark on a fitness journey.

All Journals

Read More

Navigating Unexplained Sadness: Understanding Depression Without a Clear Cause

Depression

Navigating Unexplained Sadness: Understanding Depression Without a Clear Cause

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can manifest in myriad ways and for a multitude of reasons. Sometimes, individuals may find themselves feeling depressed without a clear or identifiable cause. This can be confusing and even distressing, making it difficult to address and manage the feelings effectively. This article will delve into the potential reasons behind this unexplained depression, its impacts, and strategies for coping.

All Journals

Read More

Assessing Depression Severity: An Overview of the Hamilton Depression Scale

Depression

Assessing Depression Severity: An Overview of the Hamilton Depression Scale

The Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD) is a widely recognized instrument among the various tools mental health professionals use to assess depression severity, a complex condition that can present differently in different individuals, thus posing challenges for diagnosis and treatment. This article will explore the purpose, structure, and importance of the HAMD in the management of depression.

All Journals

Read More