Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that was primarily created to help treat borderline personality disorder (BPD). With DBT, the focus is still placed on problematic thought patterns with an aim to develop newer, more beneficial thought patterns – but in addition to this, a person is led to practice acceptance and validation in the changes that take place throughout this process. Many disorders – such as bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders and more – can come with “black and white” thinking, which makes it challenging for a person to accept all of the “gray” areas that come with life.
A 2016 study published in the journal Behaviour, Research and Therapy found that DBT does help improve the emotion regulation challenges that many people (such as those with BPD) face. With technology becoming such a prominent feature in health fields, apps are starting to emerge which can further support a person’s recovery both in and out of treatment. A 2018 review highlights this app called Pocket Skills, which essentially helps individuals engage in DBT and practice the skills learned through this in their own environment. Pocket Skills seems to cover a variety of areas that may be beneficial for someone looking to apply what they’ve learned in therapy, such as:
- Goal setting
- Education
- Skill practice
- Self-tracking regarding moods
A study titled, “Pocket Skills: A Conversational Mobile Web App to Support Dialectical Behavioral Therapy” studied the exact use of this app in a 4-week field study with 73 individuals enrolled in psychotherapy. The authors found that after having used the app for 4 weeks, those in recovery experienced decreased depression and anxiety – two common symptoms of mental illness – along with enhanced self-confidence in practicing DBT skills.
Many people in recovery for substance abuse also struggle with a mental illness, and this can add a layer of complexity to healing and restoration if not addressed appropriately. Speak with someone from Avalon Malibu today to discover how your holistic health can be reached in recovery.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation. It’s never too late, and there are people here ready to help you.
