Distress tolerance skills are techniques to help you cope with intense emotions without engaging in unhealthy behaviors. This worksheet introduces clients to core DBT distress tolerance strategies:
- ACCEPTS: Learn to Accept the situation, Commit to staying present, Observe your emotions without judgment, Push Away urges to act impulsively, Engage in healthy distractions, Thrive in the moment with self-soothing techniques, and Solutions - identify healthy coping mechanisms.
- IMPROVE the Moment: When overwhelmed, this acronym guides clients to Identify the situation, Mindfully describe their emotions, Practice deep breathing, Observe bodily sensations, Vow to stay safe, and Engage healthy distractions.
- Radical Acceptance: Learn to accept what is outside your control and focus on what you can manage.
- Distraction Techniques: Explore healthy activities to redirect your attention and reduce emotional intensity.
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Why Our DBT Distress Tolerance Skills Worksheet is Essential
- Skill-Building: Provides a framework for clients to learn practical skills for managing intense emotions.
- Reduced Suffering: Empowers clients to tolerate distress in a healthy way, reducing the urge to engage in self-destructive behaviors.
- Improved Emotional Regulation: Provides tools to regulate emotions effectively and navigate challenging situations with greater control.