Supporting a Friend in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for BPD

By following a strategy that focuses on being there for your friend and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), you can provide invaluable support as they navigate through the challenges of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Be a Presence, Not a Pro

The key to effective support is to simply let your friend know you are there for them. It's not necessary to know every detail of what they're going through. Often, simply listening can make a significant difference. For me, this type of emotional support has been the most impactful.

Encourage Continued Effort

Encourage your friend to continue with their DBT and therapy. Validate their efforts and let them know that you're proud of the progress they're making. It's important to remember that recovery is a journey, and it can be a long one. Encouragement can be greatly appreciated when it's personalized and heartfelt.

Respect Their Pace

Be understanding if your friend needs a break. At times, stepping away from therapy or daily life responsibilities can be beneficial. You can suggest that taking a break might be good for them, but don't put undue pressure on them. Trust that they know what's best for their mental health, and sometimes they will realize the need for a break on their own.

Stay Patient and Supportive

If your friend is having a particularly difficult time, allow them to think through things at their own pace. Trust that they will eventually come to their own conclusions. I recall a girlfriend from high school who seemed to have made significant strides in her battle with BPD. Years later, when we unexpectedly crossed paths, she looked different and had clearly made it a priority to work on her mental health.

While I couldn't provide specific shortcuts or tricks, I can share what has worked for me: allowing them to trust their instincts. When someone is genuinely working on their DBT, their instincts will become healthier and more reliable over time. This is a process, and every step of the way, you should support them without judgment.

Conclusion

Dealing with BPD can be profoundly challenging for both the person diagnosed and their loved ones. Your support, patience, and encouragement can make a world of difference. If your friend is committed to their DBT and therapy, continue to be a source of strength for them. I hope that both you and your friend find joy in the journey towards healing and well-being.