~ Dialectical Skills ~

@amberpep I’m so glad that things are looking up! You sound like a whole new person! And you live in a beautiful part of Virginia! Maybe the college there offers free classes for seniors. Wouldn’t that be nice?! You just sound so upbeat and happy—that makes me happy!

@amberpep How good to hear the positivity in you words! I am so glad you stepped out to find that new psychiatrist, and the group. We often find it easier to "stay where we are" because it is a known world, no matter how bad we feel. Stepping just a little bit to the side gives us a whole new view, and is helpful in finding solutions. We're here for you, cheering you on, and offering that shoulder to lean on to get to the next step.
Ginger

Hi,@amberpep - so glad to hear you've found this psychiatrist in VA you feel is excellent and that you are finding the group you are attending suggested by him helpful.

I also thought that other members who have talked about dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) might like to join in and share a bit about any experiences with this therapy or what they've learned about it, like @micekja @jmgndph @jgl15 @lorrainechavez @suscros68 @rachelanne. @petangelkat1 also mentioned some interest in this topic.

This description of DBT from mayoclinic.org also may be of interest:
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). DBT includes group and individual therapy designed specifically to treat borderline personality disorder. DBT uses a skills-based approach to teach you how to manage your emotions, tolerate distress and improve relationships.

You mentioned always coming home from your group sessions with some food for thought. Wondering if you'd share a bit more about what kinds of things you have picked up from this group so far, @amberpep?

I am a big fan of Marsha Linehan! I think she is cool and smart and I love DBT! While I don't have bpd I find dbt helpful for my anxiety. Glad you like DBT as well! I'm so thankful for DBT everyday and what is teaching and already taught me!

Hi, @etreyz07 - will you share a little more about what you have learned from dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)?

Gosh so much and I’m still learning! I like that if you enjoy things to not avoid in moments that are harder ride the wave, use your wise mind, accumulate positives, do things to feel and be well!

Hi Lisa .... yes, I've always been a black and white person .... things are either good or bad .... no middle. Well, this challenges us to find that area in the middle. Picture two circles and the area where they intersect. That's the middle .... the thoughtful part that challenges my either black and white thinking. A whole new concept for me. Yesterday we were doing mindfulness, and I realize that I cannot do multiple things at once, and still have mindfulness. For me, it's why I can't find my keys, my phone, etc. I just lay it down, not thinking where, and then because I didn't think when I did it ..... I can't find it and it starts that whole crazy search. We're getting it into more today. This is all new for me, but oh so very helpful.
abby

Hi .... one of our leaders has mentioned her book several times .... might be good for me to pick up a used copy on Amazon.
b

@etreyz07, I do like what you said about "accumulate positives." If you are comfortable sharing more, what ways do you do that?

I believe being thankful for what we have matters. Being grateful. Making a list of affirmations and activities I enjoy helps me. Also being appreciative that every minute every day is a gift so enjoy that! I like thinking that after a storm there can be a rainbow!