Who is DBT for?
- Suicide risk reduction
- Self harm risk reduction
- Reduces access to emergency services
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Also thought to be helpful for:
- Bi polar
- Autism/ADHD
- PTSD/C-PTSD
- Gender dysphoria in children and adolescents
Why is DBT helpful?
‘Dialectical‘ means 2 apposing things true at the same time.
Helps us to understand and accept difficult feelings
Teaches skills to manage these feelings
Concept
DBT can reduce the intensity of symptoms and reduce risk:
- Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts attempts
- Deliberate self harm
- Impulsivity
- Dissociation
- Drug and alcohol misuse
- Eating Disorder
DBT Skills
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Mindfulness: e.g. emotional/wise mind. Loving kindness.
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Distress Tolerance: e.g. opposite action (comedy film when feeling sad), help someone else with a problem.
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Emotional regulation: e.g. ‘this will pass’ ‘this thought does not define me’.
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Interpersonal effectiveness: e.g. learning to validate self and compassion for others – putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. STOP Skill
DBT focuses on accepting who you are
Often done in a group setting but anyone can practice the skills
Small steps lead to big changes
- engage the senses, promote relaxation, and increase body awareness
- Deep pressure: weighted blankets
- Tactile: explore textures that are calming for you
- Visual: light box
- Aromatherapy: candles/essential oils
- Allow yourself to stim!
Access to DBT Skills