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Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)
• DBT is a type of psychological therapy that focuses on changing behaviour. DBT helps a
person develop skills which can help them remain grounded, in control of their body and
mind, cope with interpersonal conflict, deal with stressful situations and retain control
of their emotions. In this way, DBT is a type of therapy that teaches skills for coping with
feelings, which can then affect a person’s behaviours.
Medication
• Medication may also be helpful alongside psychological therapy. The type of
medication depends on the personality disorder, but might include anti-depressants,
mood‑stabilisers, or anti-psychotic medications.
• Medications can be helpful in managing your emotions; however, some people
experience unpleasant and distressing side effects. In most instances there is a choice
of medication, but it may take time to establish which medication is best suited to your
needs. Tell your doctor about any side effects that are distressing you.
Interactions with alcohol, tobacco or other drugs
• It is very important that you follow your doctor’s instructions when taking any medication
that has been prescribed to you.
• Before being prescribed medication it is important to tell your doctor about your alcohol,
tobacco or other drug use so that they may give you the best possible care. Alcohol,
tobacco and other drugs can interact with some prescription medications, and this
interaction may alter the effectiveness of the medication. Mixing prescribed medications
with alcohol or other drugs can also have dangerous consequences including overdose
and possibly death.
• If you use alcohol, tobacco or other drugs and are on medication, let your doctor know
if you are planning to stop using alcohol, tobacco or other drugs. When you stop drinking,
smoking or using, the blood concentrations of other medications can also be affected,
so the doctor may need to adjust the dose of your medication.
Tips for staying well
There are a number of things you can do to look after yourself:
•
Take care of yourself.
Make sure you eat healthily and get regular exercise. Exercise
provides an outlet for the stress that has built up in your body.
•
Plan to do something you enjoy each day.
This doesn’t have to be something big or
expensive as long as it is enjoyable and provides something to look forward to that will
take your mind off your worries.
6 • personality
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substance use