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 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 - 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

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

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

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 - 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 - 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 - 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

Dialectical Behavior Therapy: An Effective Approach for Depression

DBT

Dialectical Behavior Therapy: An Effective Approach for Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness, decreased interest in activities, and difficulty functioning daily. While there are many treatment modalities for depression, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is particularly effective in providing individuals with tools to manage their symptoms. This article will delve into the ways DBT can aid in coping with depression.

Read More

Journey Through Loss: Dealing with the Death of a Sibling

Grief & Loss

Journey Through Loss: Dealing with the Death of a Sibling

Losing a sibling can be a shattering life event. This unique loss can cause intense sorrow as it disrupts familial relationships and changes the dynamics of the family structure. Here, we explore the grieving process for a sibling and offer insights on navigating this challenging journey.

All Journals

Read More

Journey Through Grief: Dealing with the Loss of Your Wife

Grief & Loss

Journey Through Grief: Dealing with the Loss of Your Wife

The loss of a wife is an overwhelmingly painful experience. It signifies the end of a shared life filled with intimate moments, common dreams, and mutual understanding. Navigating through this unimaginable heartbreak can be daunting, yet it is a journey one can endure. This article will guide you through the process of coping with the loss of your wife.

All Journals

Read More

Healing After Heartbreak: Navigating the Loss of Your Husband

Grief & Loss

Healing After Heartbreak: Navigating the Loss of Your Husband

The loss of a husband is a profound and life-altering event. This unique loss changes the course of your life and leaves a void that seems impossible to fill. Yet, during this unimaginable pain, there is hope. This article aims to guide how to grieve your husband's loss while taking steps toward healing.

All Journals

Read More

Coping with the Inevitable: Navigating the Loss of a Loved One

Grief & Loss

Coping with the Inevitable: Navigating the Loss of a Loved One

Loss is a universal part of the human experience, and the death of a loved one is among the most profound types of loss one can endure. Each person's journey through loss is unique, shaped by personal circumstances, relationships, and emotional makeup. Learning how to cope with this loss is a process that takes time and involves different strategies for different people. This article offers insight into navigating through the loss of a loved one.

All Journals

Read More

Navigating the Landscape of Loss: Strategies for Coping with Grief

Grief & Loss

Navigating the Landscape of Loss: Strategies for Coping with Grief

Grief is a profound and deeply personal journey that is an inevitable part of the human experience. Whether it's the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a significant life change, grief is a complex process that varies widely from person to person. Learning to navigate through grief and embrace healing is essential to personal well-being.

All Journals

Read More

The Path to Healing: Navigating Your Way Through Grief

Grief & Loss

The Path to Healing: Navigating Your Way Through Grief

Grief is an emotional response that emerges when we experience loss, and it is an experience that every individual will confront at some point in life. Grief is deeply personal, and its journey is often nonlinear, characterized by ebbs and flows. Healing from grief is not about forgetting or moving on but about learning how to live with the loss, making space for the pain, and eventually finding ways to remember and honor the departed. This article outlines steps to guide you through healing from grief.

All Journals

Read More

Navigating the Grief of Losing a Parent: A Path Towards Healing

Grief & Loss

Navigating the Grief of Losing a Parent: A Path Towards Healing

Losing a parent is a profoundly life-changing event, often bringing about intense grief and complex emotions. While the grieving process is deeply personal and varies widely from person to person, understanding and applying certain coping strategies can facilitate healing. This article explores some of these strategies to provide comfort and guidance during this difficult time.

All Journals

Read More

The Ripple of Loss: How Grief Impacts the Brain

Grief & Loss

The Ripple of Loss: How Grief Impacts the Brain

Grief is a powerful, complex emotion that follows after loss. This emotional state doesn't just impact our psychological well-being but also affects our physical health, specifically, our brain functions. This article delves into the intricate ways grief influences the brain, providing insights into the physiological responses triggered by loss and the subsequent stages of grief.

All Journals

Read More

Pawprints on the Heart: Understanding and Navigating Pet Loss Grief

Grief & Loss

Pawprints on the Heart: Understanding and Navigating Pet Loss Grief

Losing a pet can be a harrowing experience. Pets are more than just animals; they are beloved family members, companions, and sources of unconditional love. The grief associated with pet loss can be as profound as the grief we experience when we lose a human loved one. This article guides understanding and dealing with the grief of losing a pet, from acknowledging your feelings to finding ways to honor your pet's memory.

All Journals

Read More

Navigating the Path: Understanding and Managing Abortion Grief

Grief & Loss

Navigating the Path: Understanding and Managing Abortion Grief

Abortion grief is a nuanced and personal experience, often marked by a complex mix of emotions. Some individuals may find it difficult to process their feelings, while others may feel isolated due to societal stigma or personal beliefs. This article aims to shed light on coping with abortion grief and provide valuable strategies to support those experiencing it.

All Journals

Read More

Experiencing Fatigue in Grief

Grief & Loss

Experiencing Fatigue in Grief

In the wake of loss, grief brings many emotions, from sadness and anger to guilt and confusion. However, one of the least talked about yet pervasive aspects of grief is the profound physical exhaustion that often accompanies emotional suffering. This article explores the question: "Does grief make you tired?" delving into the reasons behind grief-related fatigue and offering coping strategies.

All Journals

Read More

Journey Through Loss: How to Process Grief

Grief & Loss

Journey Through Loss: How to Process Grief

Grief is a complex and deeply personal process that varies with each person's unique experience, personality, coping style, and support network. Losing a loved one can leave individuals overwhelmed and struggling to navigate their emotions. Despite this, understanding the grief process can provide some guidance and comfort. This article explores the grief process, shedding light on the various stages and offering insights on how one might cope.

All Journals

Read More

The Physical Impact of Grief: Can Grief Make You Sick?

Grief & Loss

The Physical Impact of Grief: Can Grief Make You Sick?

Grief is a profound emotion that we commonly associate with psychological suffering. Yet, its impact extends beyond our emotional well-being. The intense sorrow accompanying loss can significantly affect our physical health to the point where grief can make us sick. Understanding the physical manifestations of grief helps raise awareness about the comprehensive care necessary during the grieving process.

All Journals

Read More

Offering Support in Sorrow: A Guide to Helping Someone Cope with Grief

Grief & Loss

Offering Support in Sorrow: A Guide to Helping Someone Cope with Grief

Grief is a deeply personal journey that varies from person to person in duration and intensity. It is a difficult and often overwhelming experience, and those going through it can significantly benefit from the support of those around them. However, knowing how to help someone who is grieving can be a challenging task. This article will guide how to offer comfort and support to a person dealing with grief.

All Journals

Read More

Understanding Complicated Grief: A Deep Dive into Prolonged Mourning

Grief & Loss

Understanding Complicated Grief: A Deep Dive into Prolonged Mourning

Grief is a natural and expected response to loss, particularly the death of a loved one. However, in some cases, grief can become chronic, intense, and debilitating, impairing an individual's ability to function in daily life. This form of grief, often called complicated grief or prolonged grief disorder, goes beyond the typical stages of grief and can be a significant mental health concern. This article seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of complicated grief, how it differs from common grief, its symptoms, and available treatment options.

All Journals

Read More

Grief and Its Impact: Can You Die From Grief?

Grief & Loss

Grief and Its Impact: Can You Die From Grief?

Grief, a deeply personal and often overwhelming response to loss, profoundly impacts a person's physical and mental health. One question that sometimes arises in discussions about intense, prolonged grief is whether a person can die from grief. While grief alone does not directly cause death, its effects on the mind and body can contribute to serious health problems that may increase mortality risk. This article explores the connection between grief and health, seeking to answer the question, can you die from grief?

All Journals

Read More

Coping with Grief: Strategies for Processing Loss and Finding Strength

Grief & Loss

Coping with Grief: Strategies for Processing Loss and Finding Strength

Coping with grief is an inherently personal and individual experience. Everyone processes loss differently; there's no "right" way to grieve. However, some strategies can help individuals navigate through the waves of grief, learn how to manage their emotions, and eventually find a path toward healing. This article discusses some of these strategies to guide the journey of grief.

All Journals

Read More

Understanding the Bargaining Stage in Grief: Its Role and Implications

Grief & Loss

Understanding the Bargaining Stage in Grief: Its Role and Implications

Bargaining is one of the five grief stages, as Elisabeth Kübler-Ross proposed. This stage can be a powerful and sometimes confusing part of the grieving process, often seeing individuals trying to negotiate their way out of pain. This article delves deeper into understanding what bargaining in grief entails and how it plays out in the face of loss.

All Journals

Read More

The Timeline of Grief: Understanding the Duration and Dynamics of Bereavement

Grief & Loss

The Timeline of Grief: Understanding the Duration and Dynamics of Bereavement

As a natural response to loss, grief often leaves individuals wondering how long the intense feelings will last. Understanding the duration of grief and how it unfolds can be a crucial step toward healing. However, it's essential to remember that grief doesn't operate on a strict timeline, and each person's journey through grief is unique.

All Journals

Read More

Workaholism on Mental Health

Mental Health

Workaholism on Mental Health

Workaholism, an excessive and compulsive desire to work, has become increasingly common in our fast-paced society. Often perceived as an admirable trait reflecting commitment and ambition, workaholism can, in reality, serve as a revealing window into one's mental health status.

All Journals

Read More