I first found out about dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) through my psychologist who thought I would be able to benefit and learn healthy coping strategies through doing this therapy – and she wasn’t wrong.
I wasn’t too keen at first, knowing it was a group activity, but I told her I would give it a go as there’s no harm in trying new things. Looking back on my decision, I 100% do not regret going as I learned so many useful tips and techniques to help get me through some difficult times in my life.
DBT isn’t just PowerPoint slides and lectures – it’s about reflecting, purpose, friendships and understanding.
The bonus of friendship
I met Tiger-Lily through my DBT group, and she has become such a big part of my life. We realised in our everyday life, we use techniques we were taught in DBT, such as walking the middle path, validating others as well as ourselves and acceptance.
Sometimes we don’t even notice using these techniques as they have become normal for us to do – which at one point we thought we were incapable of doing.
Whenever we are both upset, we remind each other of techniques we were taught which is very helpful. DBT is not remotely about making friendships but it’s a bonus if you do!
Empowered to make a difference
After graduating from the DBT group six months later, I was given the chance to help co-facilitate and deliver DBT sessions to other young people, using my lived experience to support them.
Moving from being a patient to helping others was really empowering because it showed me how far I had come and that what I’d been through could make a difference.
I found myself engaging well with the other young people, which made me feel proud and confident in what I was doing. Being able to share skills, give hope and watch young people grow has been such a rewarding experience. It made me realise how much I want to work in mental health, especially with children and young people.
Passionate about helping others
Helping to run the DBT group was important as in the future I would love to be a psychologist – to help, heal and care for vulnerable children as I know from first-hand experience what it can be like.
Being confident and responding to the slides during the group session, I feel as if I’m answering questions of those who are too shy to speak – essentially being a voice from a child’s perspective.
I enjoy being part of someone else’s journey and seeing the progress they make. From co-delivering DBT to hopefully one day being trained to deliver it myself, I feel passionate about continuing this path and building a future where I can keep supporting others.
