If you’re looking for support in dealing with a loved one with a mental illness, several virtual support groups can provide you with the assistance you need. From the NAMI Connection to the Family Connections program, you’ll find resources to help you recover.
Family Connections
Family Connections is a support group that provides education and skills training for family members of individuals with BPD. The course is based on the Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) theory and is led by trained family members.
According to research, a family’s quality of life improves when family members are included in the treatment process. The Family Connections course is a 12-week training program that is offered for free. It meets weekly for two hours and has one to two hours of homework/practice each week.
Families that experience a loved one’s suicide attempt can experience a range of stress, including grief and uncertainty about the person’s crisis behavior. These feelings can be challenging to manage and may escalate to suicidal crises.
Several independent research studies have shown that a family member’s burden decreases when the individual receives specialized treatment. In addition, a family’s attitude towards the BPD patient improves.
One of the first programs designed specifically for family members of individuals with BPD is Family Connections. This program combines knowledge about the disorder with skills for emotional regulation, problem management, and mindfulness of relationships.
Family Connections is a 12-week program that is taught in a community setting. It is a free course led by clinicians or trained family members. It also offers a virtual option for those unable to attend the local class.
NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group
Virtual BPD support groups online can offer a wide range of benefits. They can provide a sense of connection, encourage empathy, and provide ideas for coping. These groups are also a chance to discover your strengths.
During a support group, you’ll have the opportunity to talk about your own experiences, learn new ideas for coping, and make new friends. You’ll also practice improving your communication skills with people who have BPD.
Aside from supporting you in your recovery, these groups can also benefit your loved ones. Attendees will learn how to identify and understand their emotions and will be able to coach one another on the “radical acceptance” concept.
One of the most helpful things about virtual support groups is that they are free. Moreover, they offer a safe, confidential environment.
Trained professionals often support groups. Many offer video conferencing, and others are run in person. Some offer Spanish-language groups, and some are designed for adults.
The Tasha Foundation, an organization focused on mental health, hosts several support groups. They also host a variety of online resources, including chatrooms and mental health videos.
Similarly, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a free, national organization that provides emotional support to people in distress. It’s committed to expanding and improving crisis services and promoting suicide prevention.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety is a proven, effective way to reduce anxiety symptoms. It works by changing negative thinking patterns and learning how to replace them with more realistic, less frightening thoughts.
The therapist will ask you questions about your thoughts and behaviors. They will also work with you to develop strategies to challenge your anxious thoughts. Some of these techniques include evaluating the accuracy of your views, weighing the pros and cons of worrying, and performing an experiment.
While CBT for anxiety has been shown to help, it is essential to remember that there is no cure for a disorder. However, with the help of a skilled therapist, you can make positive changes that will improve your overall quality of life.
First, you’ll need to identify the problem behaviors. Typically, people with anxiety manifest their problems in ways that only worsen their symptoms. For example, avoiding an upcoming event could lead to higher anxiety levels in the short run but eventually cause a bigger problem.
Second, you’ll need to learn relaxation techniques. During this process, you’ll practice breathing exercises, meditation, and other mindfulness practices designed to lower the intensity of your symptoms.
Third, you’ll need to become more conscious of your thoughts. It would help if you tracked your anxious thoughts and their accompanying feelings to do this. Use a journal or a CBT app to record them.
Medication
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be a very stressful condition. It affects not only you but also your family and friends. Because of this, it is essential to learn about BPD and the treatments available. There are two standard treatment methods for BPD: dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and general CBT.
Dialectical behavior therapy can help people with BPD regulate their emotions and impulsive behaviors. The main aim of this therapy is to help people change their self-destructive patterns.
Another common form of treatment for BPD is talk therapy. This therapy involves weekly sessions with a licensed mental health provider. In these sessions, the patient will discuss their symptoms and solutions.
Other treatment options include mood stabilizers and antidepressants. Antidepressants work by manipulating brain chemicals. Some patients with BPD may need to take benzodiazepines. These drugs have a high risk of addiction and withdrawal, so they should be used carefully.
Studies have shown that medications can improve patient’s quality of life with BPD. They can also lessen the symptoms of the condition. However, it is essential to remember that BPD is a severe mental illness that requires professional and emotional support.
Group therapy is another treatment option. Group sessions provide benefits for people with BPD, such as social skills and real-world practice of techniques.
