DBT | Grouport Journal

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

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

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.

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-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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."

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Relationship Issues

The Art of Engagement: How to Be a Better Listener in a Relationship

Effective communication is a cornerstone of any strong relationship. However, truly successful communication only partially relies on articulation but equally on the ability to listen. This article provides a deep dive into the importance of active listening in relationships and offers practical tips to enhance your listening skills.

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Relationship Issues

Overcoming Obstacles: How to Fix Resentment in a Relationship

Resentment in a relationship is a toxic emotion that can erode trust and intimacy, leading to distance and discord. This article discusses the importance of recognizing resentment and understanding its sources and provides strategies to address and overcome this emotion for a healthier, more satisfying relationship.

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Relationship Issues

Cultivating Certainty: How to be Confident in a Relationship

Confidence is a cornerstone of fulfilling relationships. It shapes how we perceive ourselves, influences how others view us, and impacts the quality of our relationships. This article outlines strategies to enhance personal confidence in a relationship, leading to improved interactions, better communication, and stronger emotional bonds.

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Relationship Issues

Finding Your Voice: How to be Assertive in a Relationship

In any relationship, communication is essential for maintaining harmony and mutual respect. Being assertive and expressing your needs and feelings clearly and honestly is key to effective communication. This article guides how to become more assertive in a relationship, fostering mutual understanding and stronger emotional connections.

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Relationship Issues

Claiming Your Space: How to Ask for Space in a Relationship

Finding the right balance of togetherness and individuality is crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship. You may need to ask for space to replenish your energy or regain perspective. This article explores the art of effectively communicating your need for space in a relationship without causing undue tension or misunderstanding.

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Relationship Issues

Understanding Healthy Boundaries in Relationships

Healthy boundaries in a relationship are the backbone of mutual respect, trust, and understanding between partners. They define the limits of individual comfort zones, ensuring each person feels secure and respected. This article delves into healthy boundaries and how to establish them effectively in a relationship.

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Relationship Issues

A Guide to Stopping Manipulative Behavior in Relationships

Manipulation, a behavior often detrimental to relationships, can be subtle and difficult to recognize in oneself. However, acknowledging this behavior and committing to change are crucial first steps towards healthier, more respectful relationships. This guide explores manipulative behavior in relationships and provides strategies for overcoming it.

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Relationship Issues

Strategies for Overcoming Toxic Behavior in Relationships

Toxic behavior in a relationship can manifest in various ways, such as manipulation, excessive control, or lack of respect for boundaries. Acknowledging toxic behavior is the first step in making a change.

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Relationship Issues

Strategies for Resolving Conflict in Relationships

Conflict is a normal part of any relationship. It arises from differences in perspectives, values, or desires between individuals. However, how conflict is handled can either strengthen the bond or contribute to the deterioration of the relationship.

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Relationship Issues

Embracing Openness: The Art of Being Vulnerable in Relationships

Vulnerability, the openness about feelings and experiences, forms the backbone of deep, meaningful connections. Relationships grow stronger when partners feel safe enough to reveal their authentic selves, including their fears, hopes, and imperfections.

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Relationship Issues

Creating Calm: Methods to Minimize Conflict in Relationships

Conflict is an inevitable part of any relationship. It is a regular occurrence resulting from differences in perceptions, desires, or values between two individuals. The key lies not in eliminating conflict but in understanding its dynamics and learning to navigate it healthily and constructively.

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Relationship Issues

Finding Freedom: Overcoming Jealousy in Relationships

Jealousy, a powerful emotion that can stir feelings of insecurity, fear, and anxiety, often arises when an individual perceives a threat to a valued relationship. While it's a normal emotion experienced by many people, excessive jealousy can lead to damaging behaviors and cause strain in relationships. Recognizing and understanding the root causes of jealousy is the first step toward managing it effectively.

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Relationship Issues

Overcoming Insecurity: A Path to Self-Assured Relationships

At its core, insecurity refers to feelings of uncertainty or anxiety about oneself or a situation. When it infiltrates relationships, insecurity can lead to negative patterns such as jealousy, dependence, or overcompensation. Often, these patterns result from past experiences, unmet needs, or lack of self-confidence. Understanding the origin of your insecurity is the first step towards overcoming it and cultivating healthier relationships.

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Relationship Issues

Mending Broken Bonds: Regaining Trust in a Relationship After Lying

The trust serves as the bedrock of any healthy relationship. When this trust is broken due to dishonesty or deception, it can severely strain the relationship and make it challenging to move forward. However, while difficult, rebuilding trust after lying is not impossible. It requires time, patience, and consistent effort from both parties involved.

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Anger Management

Controlling Anger in Relationships

Anger is a natural emotion that everyone experiences. In a relationship, it can be a reaction to frustration, stress, or perceived unfair treatment. However, anger can escalate conflicts and damage relationships when not managed appropriately. Therefore, understanding and controlling anger is crucial in maintaining healthy dynamics in relationships.

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Relationship Issues

Shedding Light on Gaslighting: Recognizing and Responding to Manipulation in Relationships

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation used to make someone question their sanity, perception of reality, or memories. This deceptive tactic, often employed in relationships, results in the victim doubting themselves, leading to confusion, anxiety, and low self-esteem.

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Relationship Issues

How to Stop Overthinking in a Relationship

Overthinking in relationships refers to excessive worry or rumination about the relationship, its dynamics, or its future. This mental habit can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety and even harm the relationship. Understanding the nature of overthinking and its impact is the first step toward addressing it.

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PTSD

A Guide to Effective Communication in Relationships

Communication is the cornerstone of a successful relationship. It is a vital tool that fosters understanding, resolves conflicts, and enhances the bond between individuals. A relationship thrives when both parties express their feelings, thoughts, and desires openly and honestly.

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Relationship Issues

The Essential Guide to Setting Boundaries in Relationships

Boundaries are critical in creating and maintaining respect and understanding in relationships. Relationship boundaries create a space between a person's internal world and the outside environment. They serve to establish individual autonomy, protect emotional well-being, and define how individuals allow others to treat them.

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Relationship Issues

Building Bridges of Trust: A Guide to Overcoming Trust Issues

Trust is a critical component of healthy relationships and emotional well-being. But it can lead to emotional pain and mistrust when it gets broken, whether through betrayal, dishonesty, or disappointment. Overcoming trust issues requires patience, effort, and a commitment to healing and growth. This article outlines a path toward repairing and rebuilding trust.

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