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DBT

Enhancing Mental Health with a Dialectical Behavior Therapy App

The digital age brings innovative solutions for managing mental health, one of which is using mobile applications designed to facilitate therapeutic techniques like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT apps incorporate principles of DBT, a form of cognitive behavioral therapy, to aid users in managing negative emotions and fostering positive behavior changes. This article will explore the benefits and key features of a typical DBT app and how it can complement traditional therapy.

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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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PTSD

Navigating the Path to Healing: How to Let Go of Past Trauma"

Past trauma can deeply impact a person's life, often causing distress and anxiety and affecting one's ability to lead a fulfilling life. Learning to let go of past trauma is a journey toward healing, often requiring understanding, patience, and a proactive approach to emotional and mental well-being. This article explores effective strategies for releasing the grip of past trauma and reclaiming your life.

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PTSD

Understanding Betrayal Trauma: The Impact and Path to Healing

Betrayal trauma is a unique type that arises from a deep sense of betrayal, typically by a person or institution that a person trusted or depended on. The emotional distress that stems from this breach of trust can have long-lasting effects on one's mental and emotional well-being. This article delves into the complexities of betrayal trauma, its consequences, and the journey toward healing.

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PTSD

Breaking Trauma Bonds with Narcissists

Trauma bonds, especially with narcissists, can create a painful cycle of abuse and dependency that is challenging to escape. The term refers to a deep emotional attachment that forms between a victim and an abuser within a harmful relationship. These bonds can feel almost unbreakable due to the manipulative tactics often employed by narcissists. This article will provide insights into how to identify, understand, and ultimately break a trauma bond with a narcissist.

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PTSD

The Lifelong Impact of Childhood Trauma on Health

A growing body of evidence indicates that experiences of trauma during early development can profoundly impact an individual's physical and mental health across their lifespan. Childhood trauma can leave lasting effects that extend far beyond the initial incident. This article explores how childhood trauma can influence health outcomes through adulthood.

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PTSD

Understanding the Relationship Between Trauma and ADHD

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity patterns. While genetics is widely accepted as playing a significant role in the development of ADHD, researchers are exploring the potential influence of other factors, including trauma. This article delves into the possible connection between trauma and ADHD.

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PTSD

Exploring the Connection Between Emotional Trauma and Thyroid Problems

Emotional trauma is a distressing or life-threatening event that leads to an emotional response of fear, sadness, anxiety, or helplessness. It can lead to various mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety disorders. Recent research suggests emotional trauma may also contribute to physical health problems, including thyroid disorders.

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PTSD

Understanding the Complexities of Religious Trauma

Religious trauma is a complex and often misunderstood phenomenon. This type of trauma refers to the deep psychological harm caused by negative religious experiences. For some individuals, religious environments, teachings, or practices can become sources of significant distress and pain, causing severe emotional and mental health issues that may persist long after they leave the religious environment.

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PTSD

Guiding Lights: The Five Principles of Trauma-Informed Care

Trauma-informed care represents a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery. This approach emphasizes understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of all types of trauma. Five core principles guide the implementation of trauma-informed care. Each principle supports individuals who have experienced trauma, providing a compassionate, sensitive framework that promotes healing and recovery.

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PTSD

Exploring the Connection between Trauma and Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe, chronic psychiatric disorder that alters a person's perception of reality. Despite decades of research, its exact causes remain elusive. However, growing evidence suggests trauma could play a role in developing schizophrenia. This article explores the possible link between traumatic experiences and the onset of schizophrenia.

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PTSD

Unseen Chains: Understanding How Trauma Gets Passed Down in the Womb

Exploring how trauma might be passed down in the womb takes us into the fascinating field of epigenetics. This study of how external factors can influence gene expression without altering the DNA sequence itself can provide insights into the mechanisms that might allow the transmission of trauma from a pregnant person to their unborn child.

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PTSD

Exploring the Connection Between Trauma and Memory Loss

The relationship between trauma and memory loss is a complex one that neuroscience and psychology have explored for many years. Trauma can have a profound effect on the brain, and one of these effects can be memory loss or alterations in how memories are formed and retrieved.

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PTSD

Understanding Trauma Response: Insights into the Body's Reaction to Trauma

Trauma response is a term used to describe the range of reactions that an individual can have following a traumatic event. It includes physical, emotional, and behavioral responses, and everyone's experience with trauma is unique.

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PTSD

Releasing Trauma from the Body: Effective Strategies for Physical and Emotional Healing

The body and mind share a profound connection, and trauma impacts both dimensions. Often, even after psychological trauma begins to heal, our bodies might still bear the invisible imprint of distress. Understanding how to release trauma from the body is critical for comprehensive healing.

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PTSD

The Impact of Trauma on the Brain: A Closer Look

Trauma can profoundly affect the brain, altering its structure and functionality. This happens regardless of whether the trauma is a one-time event or a prolonged experience. These changes can lead to psychological issues, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and depression.

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