What is DBT?
DBT was developed in the 1980’s, originally to assist in treating Borderline Personality Disorder. It has since evolved and is used to treat a variety of mental health difficulties. The theory behind the approach is that some people react more intensely and in a more unique manner in specific emotional situations, especially situations that are relationship based.
How Does Dialectical Behavioural Therapy Work?
The theory suggests that some people’s emotional arousal increases more quickly than others and takes longer to return to a baseline level. This can appear as extreme mood swings, seeing things very rigidly (right or wrong) and a tendency to continually being in crisis. DBT builds skills to assist in emotional regulation (managing big emotions more efficiently), interpersonal skills (relationship skills), mindfulness and distress tolerance (being able to be in an emotionally uncomfortable state for a period of time).
What can be treated with DBT?
DBT can treat a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety and depression; however it is an exceptional treatment for concerns such as bulimia and binge-eating, Borderline Personality Disorder, Suicidality, bipolar disorder and substance abuse.
