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 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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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 - 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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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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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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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 - 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 - 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 - 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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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.

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Exploring the Intersection of PTSD and Hallucinations: Understanding the Complex Connection

PTSD

Exploring the Intersection of PTSD and Hallucinations: Understanding the Complex Connection

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur following the experience of a traumatic event. Its symptoms include nightmares, flashbacks, and severe anxiety. However, the complexity of PTSD can sometimes manifest in more extreme symptoms, including hallucinations. This article explores the intersection between PTSD and hallucinations, aiming to provide a deeper understanding of this connection.

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Path to Healing: Effective Strategies for Overcoming Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD

Path to Healing: Effective Strategies for Overcoming Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be an overwhelming condition that significantly affects those suffering from it. The healing process from PTSD involves understanding the disorder, seeking appropriate help, and learning effective coping strategies. This comprehensive guide will explore various strategies for overcoming PTSD, offering insights into treatment options, self-help techniques, and ways to build resilience.

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The Intersection of PTSD and Memory: Exploring the Impact of PTSD on Memory Functioning

PTSD

The Intersection of PTSD and Memory: Exploring the Impact of PTSD on Memory Functioning

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition triggered by witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. PTSD doesn't just affect emotional health, but it can also have profound impacts on cognitive functioning, notably on memory. This article delves into the complex relationship between PTSD and memory loss, highlighting the latest research findings and offering insight into how PTSD can influence memory functioning.

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Navigating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Effective Coping Strategies for Managing Symptoms

PTSD

Navigating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Effective Coping Strategies for Managing Symptoms

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It can bring about significant life disruptions, affecting an individual's thoughts, emotions, and everyday activities. However, effective coping strategies can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life of those living with PTSD. This article explores various ways to cope with PTSD.

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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Understanding Its Impact on the Brain

PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Understanding Its Impact on the Brain

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental health condition arising from experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. The disorder significantly impacts various aspects of an individual's life, including their mental, emotional, and physical health. Among the various effects, one of the most significant is the profound impact PTSD has on the brain. This article delves into how PTSD affects the brain and alters its functioning.

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Understanding the PTSD Diagnosis: Procedures, Criteria, and Importance

PTSD

Understanding the PTSD Diagnosis: Procedures, Criteria, and Importance

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe and potentially debilitating mental health condition that can occur following exposure to a traumatic event. It's crucial to understand the diagnostic process involved in PTSD to ensure those affected receive the appropriate help and treatment. This article delves into how PTSD is diagnosed and underlines the importance of reaching out to a professional if you suspect you're experiencing symptoms of this disorder.

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Recognizing PTSD: Signs, Symptoms, and the Path to Diagnosis

PTSD

Recognizing PTSD: Signs, Symptoms, and the Path to Diagnosis

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops in response to experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. However, understanding if you have PTSD isn't always straightforward, as symptoms can manifest differently for everyone. This article aims to highlight the signs and symptoms of PTSD, emphasizing that seeking professional help is vital in achieving an accurate diagnosis and receiving appropriate treatment.

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Understanding the Duration of PTSD: A Journey, Not a Destination

PTSD

Understanding the Duration of PTSD: A Journey, Not a Destination

A common question asked by those affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is, "how long does PTSD last?" The answer can vary greatly from individual to individual and depends on various factors, including the nature of the trauma, personal resilience factors, supportive resources, and access to effective treatment.

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PTSD and Its Relationship with Anxiety: Unveiling the Connection

Anxiety

PTSD and Its Relationship with Anxiety: Unveiling the Connection

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety are often closely intertwined, leading many to ask, "Is PTSD an anxiety disorder?" This article aims to shed light on the relationship between these two mental health conditions and explain why PTSD is often considered a part of the anxiety disorders spectrum.

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Supporting Individuals with PTSD: Empathy, Understanding, and Action

PTSD

Supporting Individuals with PTSD: Empathy, Understanding, and Action

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Understanding how to help someone with PTSD can significantly affect their healing process. This article provides insights on supportive methods that can aid someone dealing with PTSD.

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Unveiling Complex PTSD: Understanding its Implications and Impact

PTSD

Unveiling Complex PTSD: Understanding its Implications and Impact

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a psychological condition that emerges in response to the prolonged, repeated experience of interpersonal trauma in a context where the individual has little or no chance of escaping. While similar to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), C-PTSD encompasses additional symptoms and is linked to sustained traumatic experiences, usually occurring in early childhood or adolescence. This article delves into the specifics of C-PTSD, helping readers understand its unique characteristics and implications.

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Understanding PTSD: A Closer Look at the 17 Symptoms

PTSD

Understanding PTSD: A Closer Look at the 17 Symptoms

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental health condition triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing or witnessing it. Symptoms often include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. This article breaks down the 17 symptoms under these four categories, aiding in a deeper understanding of PTSD.

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Trauma Support Groups and the Role of Online Group Therapy

PTSD

Trauma Support Groups and the Role of Online Group Therapy

Experiencing trauma can be life-altering. It can affect mental health, overall well-being, and how individuals relate to the world. To help manage these changes and promote healing, trauma support groups play a crucial role. These groups serve as a beacon of hope, support, and understanding. In the digital age, online group therapy has emerged as a valuable resource, bringing these benefits to individuals right in the comfort of their homes. This article explores the importance of trauma support groups and how online therapy can significantly impact recovery.

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The Journey of a Bereaved Mother: Understanding, Compassion, and Healing

Grief & Loss

The Journey of a Bereaved Mother: Understanding, Compassion, and Healing

The pain of losing a child is immeasurable and beyond comprehension. A bereaved mother bears an unbearable loss, a pain so deep that it touches the very core of her being. Yet, amid this profound grief, she embarks on a journey of healing, resilience, and transformation. This article aims to shed light on the unique experiences of bereaved mothers, offering insight into their healing journey, the support they need, and the strength they embody.

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Navigating Grief Together: The Strength of Online Bereavement Support Groups

Grief & Loss

Navigating Grief Together: The Strength of Online Bereavement Support Groups

The grief that follows a loss can feel immensely isolating, and coping with it is a profoundly personal journey. However, no one should have to walk this path alone. In today's digital world, online bereavement support groups offer a lifeline to those dealing with loss, providing comfort, understanding, and solidarity during one of life's most challenging times. This article will delve into the benefits of these virtual support systems and their role in the healing process.

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Finding Connection and Understanding: The Power of Online Support Groups for Fibromyalgia

Chronic Illness

Finding Connection and Understanding: The Power of Online Support Groups for Fibromyalgia

Living with a chronic illness such as fibromyalgia often has unique challenges. The physical discomfort, mental stress, and social isolation can be overwhelming. However, thanks to the digital age, online support groups for chronic illnesses offer an invaluable resource for individuals grappling with fibromyalgia. This article explores these groups' role in providing solace, support, and community for people with fibromyalgia.

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COPD and Community: The Power of Online Support Groups

Chronic Illness

COPD and Community: The Power of Online Support Groups

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a challenging, life-altering condition, often leading to feelings of isolation and helplessness. However, an online support group for chronic illnesses can significantly help those with COPD, offering a community of understanding, shared experiences, and vital resources. This article will explore the importance of online support groups in the lives of individuals living with COPD.

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Breathing Easier: How Online Support Groups Aid Those Living with Lung Disease

Chronic Illness

Breathing Easier: How Online Support Groups Aid Those Living with Lung Disease

Lung disease, encompassing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and lung cancer, presents many challenges that significantly impact an individual's daily life. An online support group for chronic illnesses can offer a lifeline, providing essential resources and a supportive community for those managing lung disease. This article will delve into the value of online support groups, highlighting how they can be an excellent resource for individuals with various lung diseases.

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Online Support Groups: A Place for People Living with Kidney Disease

Chronic Illness

Online Support Groups: A Place for People Living with Kidney Disease

Living with a chronic condition like kidney disease can be challenging and often overwhelming. It not only affects your physical health, but it also has significant implications for your emotional and mental well-being. One way to help navigate this difficult journey is through the support and understanding found in online support groups. Online support groups designed for people with chronic illnesses offer a valuable resource for those managing kidney disease. This article will explore how these online platforms provide assistance, camaraderie, and insight for individuals grappling with kidney disease.

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Strength in Numbers: The Role of Online Support Groups in Stroke Recovery

Chronic Illness

Strength in Numbers: The Role of Online Support Groups in Stroke Recovery

Living with the after-effects of a stroke can be a challenging journey filled with challenges and uncertainties. In times like these, support and understanding from others who've had similar experiences can be an invaluable source of comfort and inspiration. Online support groups, especially those tailored for individuals with chronic illnesses, can play a significant role. This article delves into how joining an online support group for chronic illnesses can provide valuable assistance for stroke survivors.

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