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What specific mental health disorders does Dialectical Behavior Therapy target?

Vinie Mease

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a highly effective form of psychotherapy that is designed to assist individuals in managing their emotions through learning specific coping skills. DBT, developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, primarily targets a range of mental health disorders that relate to emotional dysregulation, which includes depressive disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation.

DBT is based on the concept that all things are dialectical, meaning there are always multiple perspectives or opposite points of view at play. Consequently, balancing these opposites is essential for achieving balance and a sense of well-being. In the same way, a person with a borderline personality disorder experiences opposing emotions which can make them feel like they're living in two different worlds. This might result in negative behaviors, such as self-harm, impulsiveness, and intense relationships. DBT targets this disorder by focusing on specific coping skills like Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Skills, and Emotional Regulation, which help to balance opposing emotions and thoughts.

Moreover, DBT is also an effective treatment for individuals experiencing stress disorders such as PTSD,, that can cause sympathetic problems in your body and lead to emotional imbalance. DBT is usually structured into four primary modules, emotion regulation, mindfulness, interpersonal skills, and distress tolerance, which helps to target specific mental health disorders directly.

When someone struggles with an eating disorder, their symptoms can interconnect with feelings, emotions, and maladaptive recovery behaviors like self-harm and substance abuse that can affect their mental health severely. Their behaviors often stem from fear of food, self-esteem issues, and struggles with body positivity and body dysmorphia. Furthermore, the composition of DBT focuses on improving emotional intelligence and accepting the patient’s desire to make changes.

Finally, DBT is an effective form of psychotherapy designed to target a wide range of mental health disorders that impact an individual’s sense of well-being. Mental health disorders like borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, depressive disorders, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and posttraumatic stress disorder can significantly impact an individual’s life and keep you from living life to the fullest. Utilizing DBT can provide positive and sustainable change in behavior, emotions, and overall mental wellness.