DBT therapy

[pattihews]

I have recently heard a little about DBT, which is new to me. Can anyone point me to a reliable source of information? Has anyone had it? Was it beneficial?

DBT changed my life- I have BPD and really struggled to control my emotions before I had it. It's specifically for those with BPD who engage in self destructive behaviours.

I found it patronising.

Some good info here www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/talking-therapy-and-counselling/dialectical-behaviour-therapy-dbt/

I have gone through the full DBT program twice. It is the only reason I am still here today.

A relative has had it suggested but is resisting because of the group element. I suspect that we could get them to go but we'll need to put in some work to change their mind. After reading a few descriptions of it I wondered how effective it could be. But it's clearly worked for some here, so we'll start the process of persuading. Thank you.

Like any treatment, it works for some and not for others so you kind of just have to try it and see. No one likes the group element but we live in the world with other people so it's probably an important part of treatment.

I have EUPD (BPD) and recurrent depression. DBT is a therapy specifically designed for those with this PD but can have a wider application. You can by the DBT skills workbook online to get a feel for it. Only warning would be to be careful to practice some the skills as I found this could sometimes be triggering ( I remember one activity was to think about how you would act differently but I had to think about a time that was traumatic to me). I personally think it should be practised with a therapist and guided, but it certainly won't do harm to check it out.

Also, DBT isn't widely available on NHS. There are therapies/therapeutic communities based on it but can be very hard to access. Also a lot is group work which has pros and cons. I believe NHS do this to cost cut and easier to have everyone together in a session.

Maybe have a look on Mind and check out some books beforehand to explore what it is about and what it sets out to achieve.