How DBT Therapy Can Help Your Teenager with Anxiety and Depression
As a parent, watching your teenager struggle with anxiety and depression can be overwhelming. You want to help, but knowing where to start can be challenging. One effective approach that has helped many teens navigate their emotions and build resilience is Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT).
You might be asking: what exactly is DBT therapy?
DBT is a structured, evidence-based form of therapy that focus es on helping individuals manage their emotions, improve relationships, and develop effective coping strategies. Originally developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been adapted to help people of all ages, including teenagers, who struggle with anxiety and depression.
How DBT Helps Teens with Anxiety and Depression
DBT is particularly beneficial for teenagers because it addresses both the emotional intensity and the difficulty regulating feelings that often accompany adolescence. It focuses on four key areas:
1. Mindfulness
Mindfulness teaches teens to be present in the moment, rather than getting caught up in worries about the past or future. This practice helps them recognize their emotions without judgment, reducing the tendency to spiral into anxious or depressive thoughts.
2. Distress Tolerance
Teens with anxiety and depression often experience overwhelming emotions that lead to impulsive behaviours or avoidance. DBT provides skills for tolerating distress in healthy ways, such as self-soothing techniques, distraction strategies, and acceptance-based approaches.
3. Emotion Regulation
Many teens struggle with intense mood swings, making it difficult to function in daily life. DBT helps them understand their emotions, recognize triggers, and develop strategies to regulate their feelings before they become overwhelming.
4. Interpersonal Effectiveness
Anxiety and depression can make social interactions challenging. DBT teaches teens how to communicate their needs effectively, set healthy boundaries, and build stronger relationships without resorting to conflict or withdrawal. In our experience, after your teen learns DBT interpersonal skills you will notice a big difference in their communication with you!
Signs Your Teen Might Benefit from DBT
If your teenager exhibits any of the following signs, DBT might be a helpful approach:
- Frequent mood swings or emotional outbursts
- Difficulty coping with stress or conflict
- Avoidance of social situations or school-related activities
- Self-harming behaviours or thoughts of self-harm
- Using substances, video games, shopping or food as coping strategies
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worry
- Struggles with self-esteem and negative self-talk
- Frequent relationship struggles with peers
- Suicidal thoughts, ideations or attempts
How to Get Started with DBT
If you think DBT could benefit your teenager, consider these steps:
- Find a DBT-trained therapist – Look for professionals who specialize in DBT for adolescents.
- Explore group therapy options – Many teens find it helpful to practice DBT skills in a supportive group setting with peers who understand their struggles.
- Encourage consistency – DBT requires commitment, so encourage your teen to attend sessions regularly and practice skills at home.
- Be supportive – Learning new coping strategies takes time. Validate your teen’s feelings and encourage them to apply DBT techniques in their daily life.
- Consider attending therapy individually or alongside your teen: No one is a perfect parent, and we know that your own stuff can come up as you parent your teens. Having someone teach you coping skills, facilitate dialogue with your teen and support you in parenting can be a great step in supporting your teen in their own therapy
Conclusion
DBT provides practical, effective tools that help teens gain control over their emotions, build resilience, and develop healthier ways of coping with anxiety and depression. With the right support, your teenager can learn to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and emotional stability.
If you’re looking for professional guidance, consider reaching out to a therapist trained in DBT to explore how this therapy can benefit your teen. We have a team of therapists who have DBT training who would love to support your teen and your family both in Vancouver or online. Investing in their mental health today can make a lasting difference in their future well-being.
