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DBT and Trauma
Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC for Eating Disorder Hope
For countless individuals, the pain from a traumatic event may be a reality of daily living. Trauma can result from any type of event that evokes pain or stress that a person is unable to cope with. While a traumatic event can be different for everybody, this can be any type of circumstance that is perceived as a threat to one’s safety or stability1.
This can involve: abuse, abandonment, natural disaster, accident, war, and more.
The Consequences of Trauma for Daily Living
Victims of trauma may suffer with consequences that impact their daily living, such as flashbacks, mood/anxiety disorders or mental illnesses, such as post-traumatic stress disorders, or eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder.
While trauma is not the single root cause of mental illness, it can trigger the development of something more severe in susceptible individuals. If trauma has affected one’s ability to live, have meaningful relationships; sustain a career or more, it is important to seek professional help and healing from this trauma.
Therapy Techniques to Help Survivors of Trauma
Psychotherapy techniques can effectively help survivors of trauma effectively cope and heal from traumatic situations. One such therapy technique is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). DBT is a form of therapy that integrates mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness skills, and emotional regulation.
Learning how to cope with intense emotions in a healthy and effective manner can be healing for a person who has suffered with trauma. Therapists who utilize the DBT technique for trauma victims promote healing by role-playing lessons, encouraging behavioral skills and developing problem solving scenarios.
DBT as a Form of Treatment and Therapy
While many different psychotherapy techniques can be utilized to heal from traumatic events, DBT can be an effective form of treatment and therapy. The important message to understand is that healing cannot happen alone, and professional support can provide the needed guidance to overcome painful circumstances and experiences.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of trauma, know that there are resources available to help you process this pain. Co-occurring mental health illnesses, such as eating disorders, should also be addressed in treatment.
In many instances, trauma may be a trigger to more complicated problems, and by effectively dealing with the deeper pains, one can also find the tools to overcome other concerning issues.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What has been your experience with DBT and trauma? How has DBT been a helpful part of your recovery from trauma and/or an eating disorder?
References:
- “Traumatic Events”, Medline Plus Medical Encyclopedia http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001924.htm
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on April 18th, 2015
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
