Creating a Personal Crisis Plan: 5 DBT Tips for Managing Mental Health Crises

Creating a Personal Crisis Plan: 5 DBT Tips for Managing Mental Health Crises


Living with a mental health condition can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing mental health crises. When faced with a crisis, it’s important to have a plan in place to help you navigate through it. One effective approach to managing mental health crises is through Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a type of therapy that focuses on teaching individuals skills to manage their emotions and improve their relationships.
Creating a personal crisis plan using DBT strategies can help individuals better cope with and navigate through difficult situations. Here are 5 DBT tips for managing mental health crises and creating a personal crisis plan:
1. Identify Triggers and Warning Signs
The first step in creating a personal crisis plan is to identify triggers and warning signs that may lead to a mental health crisis. These triggers and warning signs can be specific situations, thoughts, or emotions that may exacerbate a crisis. By recognizing and understanding these triggers, individuals can better prepare for and respond to potential crisis situations.
2. Build a Support System
Having a strong support system in place is crucial for managing mental health crises. This can include family members, friends, mental health professionals, or support groups. Building a support system can provide individuals with the necessary resources and help they need during a crisis. It can also help to have a designated person to contact in case of a crisis, such as a trusted friend or family member.
3. Develop Coping Skills
DBT emphasizes the importance of learning and using coping skills to manage emotions and distress. Developing coping skills can include mindfulness practices, emotion regulation techniques, and interpersonal effectiveness strategies. It’s essential to practice these skills regularly so that they become readily available during a crisis situation.
4. Create a Crisis Response Plan
A crisis response plan outlines specific steps to take in the event of a mental health crisis. This plan can include contact information for support people, coping strategies to use, and steps to take to ensure safety. Having a crisis response plan in place can help individuals feel more prepared and in control during a crisis.
5. Practice Self-Care
Self-care is an essential component of managing mental health crises. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation, self-soothing, and overall well-being can help individuals cope with the stress and emotions that come with a crisis. This can include activities such as exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or engaging in hobbies that bring joy and calm.
Creating a personal crisis plan using DBT strategies can provide individuals with a proactive approach to managing mental health crises. By identifying triggers, building a support system, developing coping skills, creating a crisis response plan, and practicing self-care, individuals can be better equipped to navigate through difficult situations and minimize the impact of a crisis on their mental health.
In conclusion, creating a personal crisis plan using DBT tips can be a valuable tool for managing mental health crises. By implementing these strategies, individuals can feel more prepared, supported, and capable of navigating through challenging situations. It’s important to remember that everyone’s personal crisis plan will look different, and it’s essential to tailor the plan to individual needs and preferences. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health crisis, it’s crucial to seek professional help and support. Remember that it’s okay to ask for help and that there are resources available to support you through difficult times.