What Makes Life Worth Living?

 

There are many factors that can contribute to a “life worth living,” and many disciplines—including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)—offer direction to understand this idea. While all persons benefit from discovering what makes their life worth living, this concept, as popularized by DBT, was originally intended to help individuals living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) deal with many of their high-risk symptoms, namely suicidality. Moments of despair often prompt individuals to consider the meaning of life, what makes life worth living, and how they can create a life that feels meaningful and worthwhile.

Our blog today explores what we can learn about creating a meaningful life from DBT and how you can navigate through life with happiness and confidence.

Living A Meaningful Life

Building a life worth living may look vastly different from individual to individual. There are many building blocks and areas of life to consider that contribute to one’s overall sense of how their life is going.

Some people find meaning and fulfillment through work, hobbies, and other activities that align with their values and goals. Others find that relationships with friends, family, and loved ones are an important source of joy and purpose. A sense of connection to others and a feeling of belonging can also be important for many people.

Having good physical and mental health can also be essential for a life worth living. This includes taking care of one’s physical health through proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care, as well as maintaining mental well-being through activities such as therapy, mindfulness practices, and self-care.

For some people, spiritual or religious beliefs and practices may be an important source of meaning and fulfillment. Others may find purpose through volunteering, making a positive impact on their community, or working towards a cause they believe in.

Ultimately, what makes life worth living is unique to each individual, and may change over time. It is important for individuals to identify their own values, goals, and sources of meaning and fulfillment, and to work towards creating a life that aligns with these things.

DBT Therapy And A “Life Worth Living”

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy developed by Dr. Marsha M. Linehan in the 1980s. Central to the foundation of DBT is the idea of a “life worth living,” which refers to a state in which an individual is able to experience joy and satisfaction in their life, despite facing difficult challenges.

The concept of a “life worth living” is based on the idea that individuals with BPD, and other mental health conditions, often struggle with extreme emotional reactions, self-destructive behaviors, and a lack of sense of purpose or meaning in their lives. These challenges can make it difficult for them to find happiness and fulfillment, leading to feelings of hopelessness and despair.

Is The Idea Of “Life Worth Living” Only For Those Considering Suicide?

While the concept of a “life worth living” is central to DBT, it is not specifically related to suicidal thoughts or behaviors. DBT was originally developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), who are at higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. However, DBT has since been adapted to treat a variety of other mental health conditions, and the concept of a “life worth living” is relevant to individuals with a range of mental health challenges.

While suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be a sign of severe distress and may be a focus of treatment in DBT, the concept of a “life worth living” is not solely related to suicide prevention. Rather, it is about helping individuals create a life that is fulfilling and meaningful, regardless of the challenges they may face.

Goals Of DBT Therapy

In DBT, the goal is to help individuals develop skills and strategies that enable them to create a life worth living, despite the challenges they may face. This involves developing a set of core values and goals that give an individual a sense of purpose and direction, as well as building skills to manage difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.

Managing Distress

One key aspect of creating a life worth living in DBT is learning how to manage distress. Distress can be caused by a variety of factors, including physical pain, difficult emotions, or challenging circumstances. It is a normal and necessary part of life, but it can be overwhelming and lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms if not properly managed.

DBT helps individuals develop skills to manage distress in healthy ways, such as through mindfulness techniques, emotion regulation strategies, and problem-solving skills. By learning how to manage distress effectively, individuals can better cope with difficult situations and emotions, and be better equipped to pursue their values and goals.

Developing A Sense Of Purpose

Another important aspect of creating a life worth living in DBT is developing a sense of meaning and purpose. This involves finding and pursuing activities that are personally meaningful and fulfilling, and that align with an individual’s core values. This can include work, hobbies, relationships, or other activities that bring joy and purpose to an individual’s life.

In DBT, individuals also work on developing healthy relationships and social support systems, as these can be critical for maintaining a sense of connection and purpose. Building and maintaining positive relationships can provide individuals with a sense of belonging and support, which can be essential for maintaining a life worth living.

Learn To Accept And Deal With Emotions

In addition to developing skills to manage distress and pursue meaningful goals, DBT also helps individuals learn how to accept and validate their own emotions and experiences. This involves learning how to acknowledge and express emotions in a healthy way, rather than suppressing or denying them. It also involves learning how to accept that difficult emotions and experiences are a normal part of life, and that it is okay to feel them.

By learning to accept and validate their emotions and experiences, individuals can develop a greater sense of self-acceptance and self-compassion. This can be an essential component of creating a life worth living, as it allows individuals to move forward and pursue their values and goals despite facing challenges.

DBT Therapy At THIRA Health

Overall, the concept of a “life worth living” in DBT is about developing the skills and strategies necessary to find joy and fulfillment in life, despite facing difficult challenges. It involves managing distress, pursuing meaningful goals and activities, building healthy relationships, and learning to accept and validate one’s emotions and experiences. By developing these skills, individuals can create a life that is meaningful and fulfilling, despite facing difficult circumstances.

If you are living with a BPD diagnosis, having thoughts about suicide, wondering how to be happy in life, or wanting to discover what a life worth living could look like for you, let us help you guide you to a happier, healthier, and more fulfilled life.

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, it is important to seek immediate help. This could include calling a suicide hotline (988), contacting a mental health professional (if there’s not an imminent need), or going to the emergency room.

Seeking help does not mean that you are weak or unable to handle your problems on your own. It is a brave and important step towards getting the support you need to feel better.
There are many resources and treatments available that can help you cope with suicidal thoughts and feelings. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to overcome these challenges and create a life that is worth living.

If you are concerned about someone else who may be experiencing suicidal thoughts, it is important to take their thoughts and feelings seriously and encourage them to seek help. You can offer your support and help them find resources for treatment.

#BeTheChange and #SeeTheChange: It’s National Eating Disorder Awareness Week

 

Picture this: it’s a rare sunny day here in the Pacific Northwest, and you’re walking down the street, feeling confident and carefree. Suddenly, you hear a voice in your head that says, “You’re not good enough.” “You’re too fat.” “You’ll never be happy until you’re thin.” Sound familiar? Unfortunately, for millions of people, these thoughts are all too real and a constant presence in their lives. Welcome to the world of eating disorders.

But there’s hope on the horizon! National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) is gearing up for their annual National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, a time to raise awareness, provide support, and dispel harmful myths about eating disorders. So, grab a slice of pizza or a kale salad (all foods are acceptable, after all) and get ready to learn all about the ins and outs of eating disorders and why NEDA’s National Eating Disorder Awareness Week is the spotlight we need on some important truths about eating disorders.

National Eating Disorder Awareness Week

Eating disorders are a serious and prevalent issue that affect millions of people worldwide. 9% of the U.S population, or about 28.8 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. From anorexia to bulimia to binge eating disorder, these conditions can be life-threatening and have a devastating impact on both physical and mental health. But despite their prevalence, eating disorders are still shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding.

That’s why this February 27 – March 5 has been deemed National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, a time to raise awareness, provide support, and empower change for those affected by eating disorders. NEDA kick starts it’s campaign on eating disorder awareness and recovery with a simple slogan, “It’s time for change” with additional encouragement to #BeTheChange and #SeeTheChange.

Treatment & Support For Eating Disorders Is Available At THIRA Health

If you or someone you know is suffering with an eating disorder, we are here to help. No one has to go through this alone. Learn how our therapeutic techniques and interventions adapted to the treatment of eating disorders can help you change your relationship with food and feel physically and emotionally happier and healthier.

#BeTheChange

So, what does it mean to #BeTheChange when it comes to eating disorder awareness? Being the change includes continued participation in advocacy, awareness efforts, and community building for those affected by eating disorders (parents and loved ones included). Being an informed individual can help you be an ally and resource to someone in need rather than perpetuating the shadow side of diet culture or engaging in unhelpful behaviors.

Start With What You Know

Eating disorders are emotionally, mentally, and physically draining. This is a very isolating diagnosis that takes control of someone’s life. Knowing and identifying symptoms and behaviors of eating disorders can help you know when to step in and point them towards available support. This may be a tough conversation to have, but it can also be life-saving and the intervention someone needs to seek treatment for their eating disorder.

Share What You Know

Whether you are a mentor to someone in recovery, post about your personal experiences in recovery on social media, or volunteer with a larger organization, you are supporting people just by being part of the eating disorder community. Adopting an attitude of continued learning and growth can inspire others and bring awareness to a preventable and treatable condition.

Click here to view community resources and advocacy efforts online or in your area that you can be a part of and share.

#SeeTheChange

You can #SeeTheChange by recognizing and ensuring you’re receiving treatment that is consistent with the ever-evolving eating disorder field. The ultimate aim is to:

• Increase treatment success rates
• Decrease instances of relapse
• Identify warning signs
• Strengthen prevention messages and
• Continue to develop and improve upon current treatment options

Positive change is possible because of the awareness and advocacy work everyone does. Whether it is a steady increase in recovery resources, such as helplines, utilized, destigmatization of diagnosis, accessibility of treatments, groundbreaking research and legislative action, the change has become increasingly more visible.

What Are Some Recent Developments In The Field Of Eating Disorder Treatment?

In recent years, there have been a number of important developments in the field of eating disorder treatment, including:

1. Integration of technology: Technology has become an increasingly important tool in the treatment of eating disorders. Virtual therapy, online support groups, and telemedicine have become more common, allowing individuals to receive care from the comfort of their own homes.
2. Expansion of evidence-based treatments: There has been a growing emphasis on evidence-based treatments for eating disorders, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family-based therapy. These treatments have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms and improving outcomes for individuals with eating disorders.
3. Recognition of comorbidities: There is a growing recognition of the importance of treating comorbid mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, in individuals with eating disorders. Many eating disorder treatments now incorporate a holistic approach, addressing not just the eating disorder, but also any underlying mental health conditions.
4. Increased focus on diversity and inclusivity: There has been a growing focus on addressing the needs of diverse populations in eating disorder treatment, including individuals from different cultural, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds. This has led to the development of culturally responsive treatments and increased access to care for marginalized populations.
5. Development of new pharmacotherapies: There has been significant progress in the development of new pharmacotherapies for eating disorders, including medications to treat anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder. These new medications are showing promise in reducing symptoms and improving outcomes for individuals with eating disorders.

These developments highlight the progress that has been made in the field of eating disorder treatment, and the growing emphasis on evidence-based, individualized, and accessible care. While more research is needed to continue to improve outcomes for individuals with eating disorders, these advances are a step in the right direction.

Eating Disorder Recovery Tools & Information

ED recovery is a journey, but one you do not have to tackle alone. There are many supports, therapies and tools that you can utilize, regardless of where you are in your recovery journey. Research shows that many Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) tools can be very effective for promoting positive coping skills and mood regulation.

Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills In Eating Disorder Recovery

With all the discussion of advocacy on a global or national scale, it’s important to remember that advocacy begins within each of us. Everyone’s experience with disordered eating and recovery is different and that is ok. It is important to be able to effectively verbalize what supports work for you and what does not so your unique needs can be met.

Recovery for eating disorders often puts a strain on some of the most important relationships in your life. However, conflict in relationships can be improved by utilizing a DBT tool called DEAR MAN, for example. This is a tool that addresses the importance of self-advocacy, vocalizing needs, and maintaining positive interpersonal relationships. DEAR MAN stands for:

D – describe the situation
E – express your feelings/reaction to the situation
A – assert yourself in your perspective, needs and wants
R – reinforce the positive consequences of your ask, and clarify potential negative consequences

M – (be) mindful in your goals, delivery, and position
A – appear confident, knowledgeable and strong in your position
N – negotiate by willing to give to get

Positive Affirmations For Eating Disorder Recovery

Lastly, it is important to replace negative, unwanted behaviors or reactions to triggers with positive coping skills. One example of a DBT positive coping skill is practicing affirmations. It seems simple, but it is effective when practiced. Success is not always easy, but positive self-talk can make it possible. An example of a positive affirmation mantra may look like:

I am able to express my emotions in a healthy, positive way. I can do anything I want. I have many options and always make the best decisions I can. I have stability in my life and in myself. I like myself. I respect my body. My body is strong.

Eating Disorder Treatment At THIRA Health

If you need support in recovery, THIRA Health’s unique pillars and approach to eating disorder treatment may be the answer. Are you ready to #BeTheChange and #SeeTheChange?

Source: https://www.thirahealth.com/2023/02/22/bethechange-and-seethechange-its-national-eating-disorder-awareness-week/

DBT and the Treatment of Depression: A Guide

Depression is a common and debilitating mental health disorder that affects millions of people around the world. For those struggling with depression, finding the right treatment can feel overwhelming. With numerous treatments for depression available—including medication, intensive outpatient treatment programs, therapy, and support groups—it can be difficult to know where to start.

In this blog, we’ll focus on one specific type of therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), offered through our intensive outpatient program (IOP) or partial hospitalization program (PHP), and how it can help in the treatment of depression. We dive into the research and evidence behind this type of therapy and provide an overview of how it can help individuals with depression manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Whether you are looking for information on major depressive disorder treatments or are simply interested in learning more about DBT, this guide will provide valuable insights and resources.

How Does Therapy Help In The Treatment Of Depression?

Research has shown that therapy can be an effective treatment for depression. By working with a trained therapist, individuals with depression can learn coping skills, develop healthy habits, and gain a better understanding of their thoughts and feelings. In DBT, the focus is on teaching skills to regulate emotions, manage stress, and improve relationships. By using these skills, individuals with depression can better manage their symptoms and reduce the severity of their depression.

What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

Treatment-resistant depression is a term used when individuals with depression do not respond well to traditional forms of treatment for major depressive disorder, such as medication and therapy. For those with treatment-resistant depression, finding the right treatment can be a long and difficult process. DBT has been shown to be effective for individuals with treatment-resistant depression and can be used as an alternative or in addition to traditional treatments.

How Do People Cope With Depression?

Everyone copes with depression differently. Some people find relief through exercise, meditation, or support from friends and family. Others may find that therapy, medication, or a combination of both works best for them.

DBT Skills That Combat Depression

One of the key elements of DBT is the use of specific skills to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Some of the most important DBT skills used to treat depression include:

1. Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a core component of DBT, and it involves being present in the moment and paying attention to one’s thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. This skill can help individuals with depression become more aware of their emotional state and develop a greater sense of control over their thoughts and feelings.
2. Emotion Regulation: Emotion regulation skills help individuals identify and manage intense emotions that can lead to depression and other mental health problems. This may include techniques for reducing emotional reactivity, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and self-soothing.
3. Interpersonal Effectiveness: Interpersonal effectiveness skills help individuals build and maintain healthy relationships, which can be an important factor in managing depression. These skills may include assertiveness, active listening, and conflict resolution.
4. Distress Tolerance: Distress tolerance skills help individuals manage intense emotions and distressing situations without resorting to self-destructive behaviors. This may include developing new coping strategies, such as mindfulness and self-care, and learning to accept difficult situations

Incorporating these DBT skills into therapy sessions can help individuals with depression manage their symptoms, build resilience, and improve their overall well-being. While DBT is not a cure, when implemented by a knowledgeable and experienced clinician, it has been shown to be a highly effective form of depression treatment for many individuals and can provide long-lasting benefits.

How Do You Break From Depression?

Breaking from depression can be a difficult and challenging process, but it is possible. For some people, finding the right depression treatment and support system is key. In DBT, individuals with depression learn skills to manage their symptoms, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. With time and effort, individuals with depression can regain control of their lives and break from the cycle of depression.

How Can I Overcome Depression Easily?

Unfortunately, overcoming depression is not an easy or quick process. It can take time and effort to find the right treatment and support system. In DBT, individuals with depression work with a trained therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Consider An IOP Program For Treatment-Resistant Depression

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) treatment is different from standard outpatient treatment in several ways when working with treatment-resistant depression. IOP treatment is a higher level of care that provides more intensive support and structure than standard outpatient treatment. The key differences are:

1. Time commitment: IOP treatment typically involves more hours per week compared to standard outpatient treatment. IOP treatment may be several hours a day, several days a week, whereas standard outpatient treatment may be one hour a week.
2. Frequency of treatment: IOP treatment is more frequent than standard outpatient treatment, which can help individuals with treatment-resistant depression make progress more quickly.
3. Level of structure: IOP treatment typically provides a higher level of structure and support compared to standard outpatient treatment. This may include structured therapy sessions, group therapy, and activities designed to help individuals with treatment-resistant depression develop coping skills and strategies.
4. Focus on skill-building: IOP treatment often places a greater emphasis on skill-building and practical strategies to help individuals with treatment-resistant depression manage their symptoms. This may include mindfulness exercises, stress management techniques, and other evidence-based therapies.

IOP treatment may be a valuable option for individuals with treatment-resistant depression who are looking for a more intensive level of support to manage their symptoms. If you require more support than our IOP can provide, we also offer Partial Hospitalization services (PHP) as well!

DBT Treatment For Depression At THIRA Health

In conclusion, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can be a valuable tool for individuals with depression, as is investing their time in an intensive outpatient treatment where they can strive towards their “life worth living” multiple times a week, for multiple hours. By learning skills to regulate emotions, manage stress, and improve relationships, individuals with major depressive disorder can better manage their symptoms and reduce the severity of their depression.

If you are struggling with depression and are interested in learning more about DBT, consider reaching out to our depression treatment center for more information.

Help for me

Help for a family member

Provider Referral

Source: https://sites.google.com/view/dialectical-behaviour-therapy-/articles/dbt-and-the-treatment-of-depression-a-guide?authuser=1