Substance use disorder involves more than the physical dependence on drugs or alcohol. Most individuals who struggle with addiction have underlying emotional or mental issues that contribute to their substance use behavior. These underlying conditions may include depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more. A dialectical behavior therapy program seeks to help these individuals improve their quality of life.
At Sierra Sage Recovery Services, our dialectical behavior therapy program is designed to teach clients a more effective method for managing strong emotions or stress without resorting to addictive substances. Find out more about our DBT program by calling 833.922.2884 to speak with one of our representatives today.
Understanding the Core Techniques of DBT in Las Vegas
Dialectical behavior therapy teaches a person more effective methods for improving their ability to manage emotions and tolerate stress. It also helps them adjust how they interact with others to improve relationships.
During dialectical behavior therapy in Las Vegas, a person gains insight into why they engaged in certain behaviors. With that understanding, they are equipped to formulate strategies to improve all areas of their lives.
Dialectical thinking means being able to see multiple perspectives surrounding an issue. It allows individuals to arrive at the most efficient and comprehensive understanding of seemingly contradictory information. In other words, establishing a fulfilling life requires a balance between change and acceptance. The core techniques of dialectical behavior therapy in Las Vegas teach a person to think dialectically.
How Does Dialectical Behavior Therapy in Las Vegas Work?
Dialectical behavior therapy was originally used to treat individuals with borderline personality disorders. It is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that teaches an individual to manage intense negative emotions or thought patterns.
Today, DBT is used in addiction treatment programs to help people resist using drugs or alcohol as a form of self-medication.
The most effective skills learned in DBT include the following:
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a mental state that focuses on the present rather than the future. A person can achieve mindfulness by calmly acknowledging their thoughts and feelings at the moment. When people practice mindfulness, they may use controlled breathing, guided imagery, and other relaxation techniques to reduce stress.
Generally, when someone seeks a state of mindfulness, three components or steps are vital to the process:
- Cultivate awareness
- Focus on what is happening in the present
- Adapt a non-judgmental, accepting attitude
In short, mindfulness is the opposite of multitasking or rushing. It means taking the time to pay full attention to what is happening.
Regulating Emotions
Many people turn to drugs or alcohol to help them cope with strong emotions. They don’t want to deal with them and choose to ignore or blunt them in any way possible. Learning how to manage or regulate emotions effectively involves several steps:
- Accept the emotion and identify or label it
- Question the reason for the response or reaction
- Acknowledge the impermanence of the emotion
When people learn to identify their feelings, they can determine how to cope in situations where they feel unable to cope.
Tolerating Stress
The inability to effectively manage stress is often a precursor to substance use disorders. People may use drugs or alcohol to calm themselves when overwhelmed by stress. Overcoming addiction is easier when they learn to use effective problem-solving skills in stressful situations.
Interpersonal Skills
DBT helps individuals learn how to respond to others in healthy ways. They cultivate methods for controlling the intensity of their assertive behavior and determine when it is appropriate to respond with empathy and compassion. This skill helps individuals gain the self-respect that is critical to maintaining sobriety.
DBT in Las Vegas Is Available at Sierra Sage Recovery
Effective addiction treatment must consist of a comprehensive curriculum that includes dialectical behavior therapy, among other treatment modalities. When people learn how to master their response to emotions or stress, they are less likely to resume substance use behaviors.
To learn more about DBT in Las Vegas, contact us today at 833.922.2884, or use the convenient online form provided. Your recovery from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders is our primary mission at Sierra Sage Recovery.
