Lived Experience Forum

[WIP]

Thanks @BPDSurvivor 

This psychologist is a DBT specialist, so that's going to be her approach.  I'll ask about any groups she may know of that run, but as you said, they are limited in availability, so they probably won't be an option for me - even though I feel I'd be ok in groups.

I saw that Anelia had suggested Workbooks too. I ordered one from Booktopia this morning, so am looking forward to that arriving in the mail. The psychologist said she will be providing me with handouts and  homework each session. So I have to be disciplined with that.

I guess I'm feeling a tiny bit hopeful that I've found someone who can potentially help me.  But, I'm going in with caution, as I've been let down so many times when reaching out for help and trying many different medications and therapy (psychotherapy, TMS, & ECT), which haven't been helpful - some of which has actually set me backwards.

I asked her outright at the end of last weeks session - 'Do you think you can help me?'. I had been very emotional during the session expressing my frustration (and anger) at the medical professionals I've been dealing with this year so far. She replied, 'Yes, I believe I can'.

So, we'll see how things go....

Wish me luck! 

[BPDSurvivor]

@WIP ,

Wow, that's so positive that your psychologist was able to say she could help you. But it's even more positive that you were able to ask her straight out!

It reminds me of last week when I when to see a new GP for the first time. I felt a little bad because I felt like I was interviewing or interrogating her as to whether we could fit the criteria to be my new GP. At the end of it, she said 'I haven't actually worked too closely with too many pwBPD, but I'm really excited and looking forward to working with you.' This is the energy and vibe I need from a GP. Although she has limited availability, it's worth it. I guess the good professionals are the ones that are hard to get into. That's a good sign.

I'm so happy for you @WIP . Just hanging in there when things are tough is already a tough gig. You're doing an amazing job, even if you don't think so.

Also, let me know how the DBT book goes. I'm glad you are going to give it a go.

BPDSurvivor

[Former-Member]

Hi all.

Please excuse my ignorance, but can someone please explain to me what DBT is? I know what it stands for but I don't know what it does, just like CBT (I've never had it done before but I'm trying to find Psychologists, just having no luck). I'm sorry for not knowing.

Thank you. @Teesha22 @BPDSurvivor @WIP @Aniela @PeaceSeeka and anyone I forgot to tag, sorry

[BPDSurvivor]

Hi @Former-Member ,

DBT stands for dialectical behaviour therapy.

CBT stands for cognitive behaviour therapy.

They are both psycho therapies. DBT is a form of CBT and involves the idea that two dialectics can simultaneously be present at the same time. It is about radically accepting what is, and working to move forward. Focuses on supporting emotional dysregulation, particularly for those with Borderline Personality Disorder, but for other things too.

Hope this helps a bit.

BPDSurvivor

[Former-Member]

Hey @BPDSurvivor , thanks. I know what they stand for.

Still a bit confused about it. But thank you

[Zoe7]

Hey @Sam3 Thought I'd move your questions about DBT over here where others that have done it or are thinking of doing it can have some more input ...especially @Aniela 

I have done 2 rounds of DBT and found it invaluable. In my opinion it works best in the group setting as you can practice and work on the skills with others as well as get support to do so. It is however backed up by individual sessions where you can talk about what you have learnt and also about anything it brings up for you. The sessions are regular and does involve a commitment each week for both the sessions and homework. There is also usually a daily diary entry to do to track things like emotions, meds, SI, etc. This is really handy to get an overall snapshot of how your week has been - it is also great to look back on after a course of DBT to see if things have changed for you. Sometimes seeing it in black and white hels to see improvements (even if they are small).

I found it very, very hard at first to be in the group - did not speak for 4 weeks and did not take much in at all - but I stuck it out and it got easier. My second round was much, much easier. I picked up on so much more than I did the first round and could consolodate some skills I did remember.

Like anything - you need to practice the skills when you are feeling okay so you can call on them more readily when you are not feeling okay. ...and that is still hard to do but I can say that it has made a world of difference to how I look at things and how I get through some days.

[Sam3]

Thanks so much for your reply @Zoe7  & for moving the discussion to this thread. DBT sounds like a lot of work & daily commitment. I don't think I have enough energy yet. I also think the group approach would be better. That's incredible you didn't speak to the first 4 weeks - I'm so glad you got benefits when you persisted. Did it help you most wth managing your behaviour or your mood? I've read a bit & it seems like it's a pot pouring of 'tricks'?! Which one/s helped you most if you don't mind me asking? 

[Zoe7]

As strange as it may seem @Sam3 ...breathing helped me most and radical acceptance. 

[Sam3]

Thanks @Zoe7 yes it would be great "radical acceptance" was easily mastered! 

[Zoe7]

It has really helped me in so many ways @Sam3 Mostly putting the past in the past and also dealing with my family - knowing they will not change and being able to get through any issues recognising that. It has also given me more confidence to stick up for myself and not take on other's emotions - especially when my mother tries the guilt trip.