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.

Navigating Loss: The Guide to Finding Grief Therapy Near You

Grief is a complex emotional response to loss, often filled with sorrow, confusion, and loneliness. It's a universally experienced emotion, yet each person's grief journey is unique. Grief therapy offers individuals a supportive environment to process their loss, explore their feelings, and navigate the path towards healing. This article will help you understand grief therapy and guide you on finding the most suitable grief therapy in your local area.

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Self-Care in Disappointment: 6 Strategies for Navigating Emotional Letdowns

Experiencing disappointment is a natural part of human relationships. Whether it's a minor letdown or a major betrayal, these moments can be profoundly challenging. However, how we respond to these disappointments can make all the difference. This article provides six strategies for practicing self-care when people disappoint you.

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Understanding the Phenomenon: Being Mentally Checked Out

In our fast-paced world, it's increasingly common to experience a state where one feels disengaged or "mentally checked out." This phenomenon often stems from stress, burnout, or emotional exhaustion and can affect various aspects of life, from work to personal relationships. By understanding this state and its causes, we can develop effective strategies to manage and overcome it.

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Understanding Regret and Shame

Regret and shame are universal emotions that virtually every person experiences at some point. While these feelings can be uncomfortable, they can also catalyze personal growth and understanding. This article will explore the complex nature of regret and shame, their impact, and strategies to deal with them.

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Self-Validation: A Pathway to Personal Growth and Self-Acceptance

Self-validation plays a vital role in the journey of personal growth and emotional well-being. It refers to acknowledging and accepting your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Self-validation is about giving yourself the approval you seek from others, empowering your self-worth, and promoting emotional resilience. This article will guide you through understanding self-validation, its benefits, and ways to cultivate it.

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DBT

Exploring the Benefits: How Mindfulness Can Help You

Mindfulness, the practice of focusing on the present moment non-judgmentally, has been gathering interest as a powerful tool for enhancing overall well-being. But how exactly can mindfulness help you? This article delves into mindfulness's benefits, from mental health improvements to physical health enhancements and better relationships.

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Practical Distress Tolerance Techniques

The ability to effectively manage distress is a crucial life skill. It not only bolsters emotional resilience but also promotes mental well-being. Distress tolerance techniques are strategic tools that individuals can use to cope with emotional pain, discomfort, or stress without resorting to damaging behavior. This article provides a deep dive into practical distress tolerance techniques and their potential benefits to mental health.

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Engaging with Distress Tolerance: The Power of Activities

Distress tolerance, the capacity to endure and withstand negative emotions and situations without resorting to harmful behaviors, is crucial for mental health. Activities that promote distress tolerance can help individuals build emotional resilience and cope more effectively with stress and adversity. This article explores the types of distress tolerance activities, their benefits, and how they contribute to overall mental well-being.

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Nature vs. Nurture: The Role of Genetics in Social Skills Development

Social skills are a critical component of human interaction. They influence our ability to communicate, form relationships, and navigate social situations. But where do these skills originate? Have they purely learned behaviors, or do genetics play a part in shaping them? This article explores the intricate relationship between genetics and social skills, providing a comprehensive look at the role of nature and nurture in our social capabilities.

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Personal Growth

Developing Social Skills in Adults

While often associated with childhood development, social skills remain integral to adult life. They play a significant role in personal relationships, professional success, and overall well-being. However, developing these skills later in life can seem daunting to many. This article provides insights into how adults can effectively and confidently enhance their social skills.

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Personal Growth

Empowering Connections: A Guide to Improving Social Skills

Strong social skills are more than just a necessity in a world deeply rooted in human interactions—they're an asset. Effective communication and social abilities are fundamental to personal relationships, professional collaborations, or networking opportunities. This article delves into ways to enhance social skills, offering tips that can help create more meaningful, successful connections.

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Major Depressive Disorder: Understanding the Deep Despair

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), commonly referred to as depression, is a serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and a profound lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. This article comprehensively explains Major Depressive Disorder, its causes, symptoms, and treatment.

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Coping with the Death of a Best Friend

Losing a best friend to death can be one of life's most painful experiences. A best friend is often much more than just a friend; they can be a confidante, a sounding board, a shoulder to lean on, and a partner in crime. The death of a best friend can leave a void that's difficult to fill and a wound that takes time to heal. This article provides insights into dealing with such a loss and offers strategies to help cope with the following grief.

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Understanding Grief: Coping with the Loss of Your Mother

Losing a mother is a profound experience, leaving an indelible impact on one's life. The bond with a mother is often so deep and nurturing that the world can feel colder and more unfamiliar when she is gone. This article offers guidance on navigating this grief, exploring the steps to understanding the loss, processing your emotions, and ultimately finding ways to live meaningfully.

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The Art of Apology: How to Ask for Forgiveness in a Relationship

In every relationship, mistakes are inevitable. They are part of the journey and learning process. But when those mistakes hurt our partners, genuinely seeking forgiveness is essential. This article explores effective ways to ask for forgiveness in a relationship and help mend the hurt you've caused.

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PTSD

Investigating the Concept: Does Hair Hold Trauma?

The question, "Does hair hold trauma?" has sparked discussion and piqued interest in both scientific and cultural circles. This question taps into several concepts, ranging from the tangible physicality of hair and its structure to the more abstract notions of emotional trauma and cultural beliefs.

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Understanding Trauma Dumping: An Examination of Unsolicited Disclosure

In the discourse of emotional wellness and mental health, a relatively new term has emerged - trauma dumping. This phenomenon refers to the unsolicited and sudden sharing of traumatic experiences or emotionally heavy information, typically without consideration for the readiness or capacity of the listener to handle such information.

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Navigating Relationships: The Impact of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder characterized by recurring, uncontrollable, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions). While the impact of OCD on an individual's daily functioning is widely acknowledged, less attention has been given to the disorder's effects on interpersonal relationships. This article explores how OCD can impact relationships, including romantic partnerships, family dynamics, and friendships.

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Unraveling the Origins: Are You Born with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by recurring, unwanted thoughts, ideas, or sensations (obsessions) that drive one to engage in repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions). One often-debated question surrounding OCD is whether individuals are born with this disorder or whether it develops over time due to a combination of various factors. This article explores the nature versus nurture debate surrounding OCD, providing an overview of the genetic aspects, environmental triggers, and the interplay between the two.

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Chronic Illness

Embracing Digital Solidarity: The Power of Online Support Groups for COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic has introduced unprecedented challenges, stirring a wide range of physical, psychological, and social impacts on individuals across the globe. As we navigate through these turbulent times, online support groups for chronic illnesses have emerged as a valuable resource for those affected by COVID-19. This article discusses these digital platforms' crucial role in providing solace, information, and a sense of community.

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