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.

Anger Management

The Path to Tranquility: Effective Strategies for Managing Anger

As an essential human emotion, anger can be a healthy response to perceived injustice or threat. However, uncontrolled anger can lead to stress, health problems, damaged relationships, and hindered communication. Managing anger effectively is a crucial skill that fosters healthier relationships and promotes individual well-being.

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PTSD

Unseen Wounds: How Trauma Influences Behavior

Trauma is an emotional response to a distressing event that overwhelms an individual's coping ability. While it's widely recognized for its emotional and psychological effects, it's equally important to understand how trauma affects behavior. These behavioral changes can manifest in various ways, ranging from social withdrawal to aggression, and can significantly impact an individual's daily life and relationships.

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PTSD

Hyper Independence and Trauma: Unmasking the Hidden Connection

The path of independence is often celebrated, signifying strength, resilience, and self-sufficiency. However, when independence becomes hyper-independence, it can often signal a deeper issue rooted in past trauma. This article delves into the links between hyper independence and trauma, discussing how such a coping mechanism might develop and what it can mean for an individual's healing journey.

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PTSD

The Impact of Trauma on Personality

The impact of trauma on an individual is far-reaching and profound. One of the often-overlooked aspects of trauma is its potential to alter personality traits, typically considered relatively stable over time. While it is commonly accepted that our experiences shape who we are, it is vital to understand the complex ways trauma can influence our personality.

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PTSD

Navigating a Relationship When Both Partners Have Trauma

Both partners bring their histories, experiences, and personal baggage into relationships. This often includes trauma, which can significantly affect how they interact with each other. When both partners have experienced trauma, it can create unique challenges. However, understanding and navigating these issues can also lead to deep growth and connection.

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PTSD

People-Pleasing: An Unconventional Trauma Response

People-pleasing can be benign, reflecting an individual's genuine desire to make others happy. However, it may indicate a deeper issue when it becomes a chronic, compulsive behavior that comes at the expense of one's own needs and desires. This behavior can indeed be a trauma response, developed as a coping mechanism to navigate adverse experiences. This article explores the connection between people-pleasing and trauma.

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PTSD

Unprocessed Trauma: Its Residency in the Body and Mind

Trauma refers to deeply distressing or disturbing experiences that can impact an individual's mental and physical health. Unprocessed trauma is a significant concern within mental health and neuroscience. When trauma is not addressed or processed effectively, it can become entrenched in both the mind and body, resulting in physiological and psychological symptoms. This article delves into how unprocessed trauma is stored in the body and the consequences thereof.

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PTSD

The Interplay of Emotional Trauma and Dementia: An Insightful Exploration

Emotional trauma and dementia significantly impact the brain, yet the relationship between these two is complex and not fully understood. While dementia primarily refers to conditions characterized by a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life, emotional trauma is a response to highly stressful events that can trigger various physical and psychological symptoms. This article delves into the possible links between emotional trauma and the onset of dementia.

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PTSD

Unraveling Healing: Understanding Trauma Therapy for Adults

Trauma Therapy for adults is an essential component of mental health care. As the effects of trauma can manifest in many ways and linger long after the traumatic event has passed, this therapeutic approach aims to help individuals understand, cope with, and recover from traumatic experiences. This article delves into what trauma therapy is, the different methods used, and its potential benefits.

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PTSD

Mindful Healing: The Role of Trauma-Informed Yoga

Yoga, known for its benefits to physical and mental health, has existed for thousands of years. An increasingly popular approach within this ancient practice is trauma-informed yoga. It merges traditional yoga's wisdom with modern psychology's insights, aiming to facilitate healing and resilience for those who have experienced trauma. This article explores the concept of trauma-informed yoga, its principles, and its potential benefits.

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PTSD

Understanding Trauma-Informed Teaching

In recent years, the education field has started to recognize the importance of adopting trauma-informed approaches to teaching. This reflects an understanding that traumatic experiences can profoundly affect a child's ability to learn and function in the school environment. This article delves into the concept of trauma-informed teaching, its principles, and its benefits to students and teachers.

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PTSD

Unraveling the Layers: Understanding Injustice Trauma

Injustice trauma, a term emerging from contemporary psychology, encapsulates the psychological impact caused by experiences of unfair treatment, discrimination, and social injustices. This trauma can impact individuals and communities, influencing mental health, well-being, and societal structures. This article aims to elucidate the concept of injustice trauma, its implications, and methods of coping and recovery.

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PTSD

Journey Toward Healing: Restoring the Nervous System After Trauma

Trauma can profoundly affect the nervous system, a complex network that regulates bodily functions and responds to environmental changes. Whether physical or emotional, trauma can disrupt the delicate balance of the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and even physical pain. However, just as the nervous system can be disrupted, it can also be healed. This article explores ways to restore the nervous system following trauma.

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PTSD

Exploring the Link Between Trauma and Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest represents an abrupt loss of heart function, breathing, and consciousness. Various factors can contribute to this condition, but could trauma be one of them? This article will delve into the potential link between trauma and cardiac arrest, exploring trauma's physical and emotional aspects and how they may potentially influence heart health.

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PTSD

Understanding the Link Between Flinching and Trauma

Flinching is a reflexive response to sudden or unexpected stimuli. While it's often seen as a physical response to a perceived threat or surprise, flinching can also be a psychological response linked to past trauma. This article will explore the connection between flinching and trauma, how trauma manifests in bodily responses like flinching, and how to navigate this potential sign of trauma.

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PTSD

Exploring the Connection Between Trauma and Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a psychiatric condition characterized by severe mood swings. These can range from depressive lows to manic highs. While the exact cause of bipolar disorder is unclear, researchers believe it is a combination of genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors. A significant environmental factor that has gained attention in recent research is trauma.

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PTSD

Delving into Attachment Trauma: Understanding Its Impact and Implications

Attachment trauma refers to the deep-seated emotional distress experienced by an individual, often a child, when their primary caregiver fails to provide consistently and secure emotional support. The quality of the early bonds we form significantly influences our psychological development, impacting our abilities to manage emotions, cope with stress, and form healthy relationships later in life.

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PTSD

Understanding the Connection: Bedwetting and Trauma

Bedwetting is a common issue among children, often considered a normal part of development. However, if bedwetting continues past the age of seven or suddenly starts again after a period of dryness, it might be a sign of underlying issues. One such possible trigger is trauma. This article explores the connection between bedwetting and trauma and offers guidance on navigating this situation.

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OCD

Exploring the Connection: Can OCD Be Caused by Trauma?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that they feel the urge to repeat over and over. While the exact cause of OCD is not fully understood, it is thought to develop from a combination of genetic, neurological, behavioral, cognitive, and environmental factors. One such environmental factor that is gaining increasing attention is the role of traumatic experiences in the onset of OCD. This article explores the relationship between trauma and OCD, providing insights into the ongoing discussions in this field.

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PTSD

Unveiling the Connection: Is Sleepwalking a Sign of Trauma?

Sleepwalking, a common sleep disorder known scientifically as somnambulism, often stirs interest due to its mysterious nature. It involves performing complex behaviors while asleep, such as walking around, getting dressed, or leaving the house. A growing body of research suggests a potential link between sleepwalking and past traumatic experiences. This article explores the connection between sleepwalking and trauma, helping to understand whether sleepwalking can be a sign of past traumatic events.

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