Mental health conditions like bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be challenging to manage. And while there are plenty of people who do not seek the necessary treatment, there are others who experience lackluster results from medication or therapy. Finding the correct type of therapy for your needs can be life-changing, and for the most challenging conditions, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) may be just what you need.
If you want to try dialectical behavior therapy in Brazos Valley, contact the professionals at Promises Brazos Valley. Our programs include inpatient and outpatient treatment options for addiction and co-occurring mental health conditions. Contact Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086 to schedule an intake assessment and determine if DBT suits you.
What Is Dialectical Behavior Therapy?
Dialectical behavior therapy is a highly effective, evidence-based treatment proven to help individuals struggling with addiction and mental health conditions. DBT was initially developed in the late 1970s to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD).
The term “dialectical” refers to finding a balance between two opposing forces or ideas. In DBT, these opposing forces are acceptance and change. This therapy aims to help individuals accept their current situation and emotions while working toward positive life changes.
There are four primary skills taught in dialectical behavior therapy programs:
- Distress tolerance
- Emotional regulation
- Interpersonal effectiveness
- Mindfulness
These components help people better manage their emotions, cope with stress, and improve their relationships.
What Can Dialectical Behavior Therapy Help With?
Although initially intended for borderline personality disorder, the benefits of dialectical behavior therapy stretch to include other health concerns, such as:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Eating disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Substance use disorders (SUDs)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often the first choice of therapy for the above conditions. However, when CBT does not provide the desired results, therapists may turn to DBT. Dialectical behavior therapy benefits more severe substance abuse cases and mental health conditions.
The Benefits of a DBT Program
Why should you consider dialectical behavior therapy? Here are some benefits you will experience from a DBT program.
Enhancing Interpersonal Relationships
DBT can improve your relationships by strengthening your communication skills, teaching you how to be more assertive without being aggressive, and imparting the skills needed to resolve conflicts in a healthy manner. These skills make building and maintaining healthy relationships with friends, family, and colleagues easier.
Improving Emotional Regulation
By teaching mindfulness and emotional regulation skills, DBT can help you better understand and manage your emotions, which can reduce mood swings and emotional outbursts.
Increasing Distress Tolerance
DBT teaches you to cope better with distressing emotions and situations to reduce the likelihood of engaging in impulsive and self-destructive behaviors.
Reducing Self-Destructive Behaviors
DBT helps you identify and change self-destructive behaviors like self-harm, substance abuse, and eating disorders.
Is DBT Right for You?
There are several factors to consider when deciding if DBT is suitable for you:
- Do you frequently struggle with intense emotions and find it challenging to manage them?
- Are you experiencing severe symptoms of anxiety or depression?
- Do you engage in impulsive or self-destructive behaviors, such as self-harm or excessive drinking?
- Do you have a low tolerance for stressful situations or emotions?
If you identify with any of the above, dialectical behavioral therapy may provide the relief you need.
Achieve Emotional Balance with DBT in Texas at Promises Brazos Valley
If you have tried other mental health or addiction treatments but still struggle to manage your symptoms, it is time to try something different. Dialectical behavior therapy is a powerful and effective treatment for those who struggle with mental health or substance use disorders, mainly if other types of therapy have not provided the desired results. To discover how dialectical behavior therapy in Brazos Valley can make a difference in your life, reach out to Promises Brazos Valley at 979.426.0086 or via our online form.