My Life is Worth Living: A DBT-Inspired Booklet

My Life is Worth Living: A 30-day booklet to help you identify your reasons for living

The idea for this booklet was inspired by the article Do reasons for living protect against suicidal thoughts and behaviors? A systemic review of the literature (2016). The researchers' important work took a closer look at the helpfulness of Marsha Linehan's Reasons for Living Inventory. Dr. Linehan created dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and knows a lot about preventing suicide.

The quick answer to the question of "Do reasons for living protect against suicidal thoughts and behaviors?" is a resounding "YES!" Thinking and writing about your reasons for living can help you today and tomorrow. It's a practical and easy way for you to help yourself if you're someone who thinks about suicide or self-harming behaviors.

This small 5 x 7 inch journal will take you through the next 30 days. It's okay if you have dozens of reasons for living or maybe just one or two. What's most important is that you start listing your reasons for living every single day.

Click here to purchase now for $11.

Questions or interested in ordering multiple copies at a discount? Email me at amanda@hopeforbpd.com.

Stronger Than BPD: An Interview with Author Debbie Corso

Hope for Recovery from Borderline Personality Disorder

I love sharing recovery stories and am excited that author, educator, and advocate Debbie Corso has written an inspiring book that I know will help others.

Below you'll find an email interview with my friend Debbie about writing, effective treatment, and what it's like to be on the other side of BPD.

Who is this book for? Who did you have in mind as you were writing it?
I wrote this book primarily for people suffering from borderline personality disorder (BPD), BPD traits, or emotional sensitivity.  Stronger than BPD is an empowerment tool. It helps destigmatize BPD, de-pathologize emotional sensitivity, and it offers scientifically validated Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills that have helped me and countless others learn to manage intense emotions and thrive in this world.  I also wrote this book so that loved ones, as well as professionals, will be encouraged that it is possible for their family member or client with BPD traits to recover and go into remission. It is possible for their loved one or client to be in a very difficult place today and to no longer meet the criteria for a borderline personality disorder diagnosis in the future.

Was writing Stronger Than BPD personally challenging to write?
There were some sections that were particularly challenging to write. Although I have been quite an open book about my mental health journey with BPD, I sometimes still feel vulnerable sharing certain aspects of my personal experience. In some cases, listening to my Wise Mind in those moments meant that I found another way to write about a certain topic, but in other cases, it meant taking a deep breath and using opposite action to the fear—I put the information into the book even though it caused me a little anxiety, because I knew the potential for the example to help countless others who are struggling and suffering. 

It was also challenging to write about coping with a severe episode of multiple sclerosis. The reason I chose to push through and write that section was to show that these skills aren't just about coping with the day to day challenges and upsets we face, but they can also help us break down big life issues so that we can deal with those skillfully as well.

What was a typical day like for you when you were writing Stronger Than BPD?
A typical day was at my desk, sitting by a window, looking at the trees and rain while writing. I'd make myself a cup of herbal tea or have some bubbly water nearby. Other times, I'd head to Starbucks or the library to write.  I'd turn on classical or spa music. I can only listen to music without words while I write.

What has DBT meant to you? How has it changed your life?
DBT has absolutely been life-changing, and that's why I so passionately teach it and spread the word on a global scale!  DBT, for me, was like taking an Adulting 101 class. I learned so many skills that many people naturally acquire while growing up in a healthy home environment.  I also learned skills that many people who do not have BPD traits, such as black or white thinking or fear of abandonment and rejection, take for granted. At first, I felt embarrassed that I didn't know things that seemed, as I learned them, should have been common sense for an adult. But we can't learn what wasn't modeled for us or taught to us, so I learned to accept this and treat myself with self-compassion. Learning these skills allowed me to learn to embrace my emotional sensitivity and manage my emotional intensity, which has allowed me to build a life worth living. I founded an online school (DBT Path) to teach others these skills. I have a wonderful therapist co-facilitator, and we teach DBT skills to people all around the globe. Yes, DBT has been totally life-changing for me!

What is your favorite skill to use?
Self-Soothing! I used to think self-care and self-soothing equaled self-indulgence or selfishness. It's just not true. I went from feeling undeserving of self-soothing to it being one of my go-to skills when I've problem-solved and there isn't an immediate solution to a distressing situation. This might look like going outside and getting some fresh air, making a blanket cocoon on the couch and watching a favorite TV program, or having a square of really nice dark chocolate.

Do you think that anyone can recover from BPD using the skills from DBT?
I wish this were the case, and I know that DBT has and can help many, many people with BPD. The reality is, everyone is different, and some people may respond to other modalities better. The most important thing for someone with BPD traits to do is be evaluated by a qualified mental health professional and then discuss treatment options that would be the best fit for them.  That being said, DBT skills are helping people, including teenagers, with better interpersonal communication skills. They are helping entrepreneurs be more effective in their business communications. They are helping people with eating disorders. And, they are helping many people with Borderline Personality Disorder enter into recovery and remission.  I think these skills have the potential to help many people with different backgrounds and challenges.

What inspires you today?
Graphic design of all things. It's something that has not been an inherent talent for me. I've challenged myself by taking several courses, and I'm getting better! I love looking at and admiring the work of graphic designers.

I am also inspired by the Universe. Remembering that we are made of stardust is something that is not only poetic but a scientific fact. I find that quite inspiring. :)

What's your favorite pizza topping?
I'm a vegetarian who eats a mostly vegan diet...so my favorite pizza topping is veggies, and of course vegan cheese.

You can buy Debbie's new book by clicking here. Congratulations Debbie!

10 Excellent Reasons for Not Getting Help for Borderline Personality Disorder and Self-Injury

There are lots of really good reasons (and maybe a few not-so-good ones) for putting off getting the help, treatment, and support you need to recovery from borderline personality disorder or other self-harming behaviors.

Here are just 10:

1. Getting better requires lots of really hard work.

2. It's easier to resign yourself to the idea that you cannot be happy due to previous mistakes or past abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events.

3. At least you know what to expect when you stay in bed all day.

4. You cannot imagine a life that's not dictated by your emotions and roller-coaster mood swings.

5. You don't have the money, time, insurance, or it's just too far to travel to health care professionals and treatment programs.

6. Fear of failure. Again.

7. Asking for help leaves you feeling too vulnerable.

8. You're waiting for someone else to change first.

9. Family members and friends will begin to go away if they think you are better and no longer need them.

10. Even DBT creator Marsha Linehan says that all therapists act like "jerks" at one time or another.

What's next?

What are you telling yourself today? What are your reasons?

Sometimes obstacles can become opportunities. Please let me know if I can help.

I can be reached by email at amanda@hopeforbpd.com.

Better Relationships for Emotionally Sensitive Persons: An On-Demand Webinar

Creating and then sustaining healthy relationships takes a lot of hard work.

If you or someone you love is coping with emotional ups and downs then those healthy relationships can feel like an dream that may never come true. In this 60-minute webinar, I'll give you short, actionable steps for you to increase your relational happiness right away.

I cover topics such as:

• Identifying healthy relationships
• Developing greater self-awareness
• The role of forgiveness in healthy relationships
• How gratitude can improve your relationships overnight
• Attracting healthier people in our lives

This presentation is not just for individuals with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. It's for anyone would is interested in improving any important relationships. Family members and friends are welcome to participate.

This webinar is available on-demand so you can listen at anytime by registering here now.

The investment is just $19.

Wondering if this webinar is right for you? I'm available to answer any questions you have. Please contact me at amanda@hopeforbpd.com.

DBT 101: A Free Webinar

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (or DBT) is an evidence-based treatment that helps individuals suffering from suicidal thinking, intense emotions, and self-sabotaging behaviors to create lives worth living.

On Saturday, July 30 at 4:00 pm Eastern/1:00 pm Pacific, I'd love for you to join me for a free 60-minute webinar. I'll provide you with an overview of DBT and tell you about the science behind its effectiveness. This webinar is for anyone interested in learning more about this treatment.

Won't be able to attend live? That's okay! This presentation will be recorded for future listening for registered participants.

While this presentation is no longer available, please sign up for my mailing list to be notified about future events.

Temporary Tattoo Love

Dialectical behavior therapy-inspired temporary tattoos.

It's what all of the super-cool DBT-ers are wearing now. Get them today.

Finding Meaning and Purpose

Can a painful life also be one that's potentially meaningful?

The diagnosis of borderline personality disorder is often characterized by a lot of loneliness and emptiness.

Many people wonder what to do with their lives or are curious about what a life worth living even means for them. Finding purpose and meaning, however, can make a significant difference in the amount of hopefulness and satisfaction we experience in everyday life.

Beginning May 1, I'll be teaching an interactive online course that is designed to help you to find or create meaning in your own life. Throughout the month, you'll be asked to complete 12 different activities that I hope will inspire you. What happens next is up to you!

This course is open to persons diagnosed or in recovery from BPD, family members, and mental health professionals. If you are interested in creating a deeper, richer, and more meaningful life then this course is great place to start.

The books we'll be using for this course are:

• Man's Search for Meaning
• The Happiness of Pursuit: Finding the Quest that Will Bring Purpose to Your Life

I'll also be using information and ideas from:

• The Obstacle is the Way
• The Feeling of Meaninglessness: A Challenge to Psychotherapy and Philosophy
• Wounds Not Healed by Time: The Power of Repentance and Forgiveness

Please note that you do not need to purchase these books in order to participate in the course.

Questions? I'm happy to answer to them. Please feel free to email me at amanda@hopeforbpd.com.

The cost is just $29. Click here to register today.

Ethical Considerations in the Treatment of BPD

I am so very honored to be addressing the topic of ethics in the treatment of individuals with borderline personality disorder on Wednesday, January 27 at McLennan Community College in room 139 of the Michaelis Academic Center.

The cost is $10 for one CEU and $10 for lunch. Reservations can be made by emailing namievent@gmail.com.

This special event is open to the public and is sponsored by NAMI Waco.

Healthy (or Obsessive) Love in Borderline Personality Disorder

Just in time for Valentine's Day, peer educator and author Debbie Corso and Amanda Smith, LMSW are back again to talk about love and relationships in a special webinar on February 13, 2016 at 11:00 am Pacific/2:00 pm Eastern.

Join us for an honest discussion about:

• How to know when it's really love
• Understanding conflicting feelings of rejection, abandonment, dependency, and desperation
• Coping with loneliness in relationships
• Balancing our wants and needs with the wants and needs of others
• What makes for a trustworthy partner?

We'll be drawing on ideas from:

• Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find and Keep Love
• Insecure in Love: How Anxious Attachment Can Make You Feel Jealous, Needy, and Worried and What You Can Do About It
• How to Avoid Falling in Love with a Jerk: The Foolproof Way to Follow Your Heart Without Losing Your Mind

This special event is open to anyone who would like to learn more about this important topic. If you love or care about someone with borderline personality disorder then this webinar is for you.

The cost is $39 for the 60-minute webinar. This event will also be recorded for future listening for registered participants. Please note that you will need to dial in to a US-based telephone number in order to participate in the live event—this step will not be necessary if you'd like to listen to the recording once the event has been completed.

Click here to register today!

Questions? You can find me at amanda@hopeforbpd.com.

My Healthier Life: 12 Weeks to Finding a Happier and Healthier You

For those with borderline personality disorder, knowledge can be empowering and healing. What if you could take simple, concrete steps to get and use that knowledge? What if you could start today?

In 2008, Drs. Mary Zanarini and Frances Frankenburg published a research study which showed that a 12-week psychoeducation group alone significantly helped "alleviate the severity of two of the core elements...general impulsivity and unstable relationships" in women with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder.

Can an educational program about BPD make that much of a difference? It can!

Starting August 4, I'm exceptionally proud to offer a similar life-changing opportunity that you can take part in from the comfort of your own home.

What You'll Learn

Week 1
Understanding the Diagnosis of BPD (Part 1)
• Defining emotional health
• DSM-5 criteria
• Suicide and self-injury prevention

Week 2
Understanding the Diagnosis of BPD (Part 2)
• The strengths of persons diagnosed with BPD
• Excellent news about recovery from BPD

Week 3
What causes BPD?
• The bio-social theory
• The importance of genetic research
• The role of trauma, loss, and attachment

Week 4
Combating Myths and Stereotypes about BPD
• Understanding common myths and misunderstandings about BPD
• Advocating for ourselves

Week 5
Who Treats BPD and Why Does it Matter?
• The unique role of therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, case managers, and peer support workers
• Finding the right mental health professional or treatment program

Week 6
Brain Health and Medications
• The BPD brain, prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and other anatomical differences
• Classes of medications
• Limitations of medications
• Self-monitoring for success
Important note: Amanda L. Smith, LMSW is not a medical doctor and will not be making recommendations nor giving advice about medications during this presentation.

Week 7
Evidence-Based Treatment and Promising Practices (Part 1)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• Mentalization-Based Treatment
• Schema-Focused Therapy
• Good Psychiatric Management
• STEPPS

Week 8
Evidence-Based Treatment and Promising Practices (Part 2)
• Transference-Focused Therapy
• Dynamic Deconstructive Psychotherapy
• Mindfulness
• WRAP
• ICCD Clubhouses
• Expressive therapies

Week 9
Gathering Support
• Getting support from family members and friends
• Finding community and online support
• Sharing ourselves and our story with others

Week 10
The Importance of Physical, Emotional, Relational, and Spiritual Self-Care
• Self-assessment: Where are my gaps in self-care?
• How does sleep, balanced eating, and daily exercise help me?
• Mood boosters you can use now

Week 11
The Role of Self-Compassion and Forgiveness in Healing
• Defining self-compassion and understanding its role in emotional health
• Forgiving others and ourselves
• Finding meaning and purpose in emotional pain and suffering

Week 12
Progress Not Perfection
• What to expect (and not expect) in recovery
• Creating our personalized treatment and recovery goals

Who is conducting this class?

Amanda L. Smith, LMSW is a licensed social worker. She is also someone who is in recovery from BPD as well as the author of The Dialectical Behavior Therapy Wellness Planner: 365 Days of Healthy Living for Your Body, Mind, and Spirit.

Who should take this class?

While the class is designed for individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, it's open to anyone wanting to learn more about BPD—that includes family members and friends.

Are the classes live? When will they take place?

All classes are conducted live and participants will have an opportunity to ask questions during our time together each week. My Healthier Life starts on Tuesday, August 4, 2015 at 6:00 pm Central (7:00 pm Eastern, 5:00 pm Mountain, and 4:00 pm Pacific). Classes are 60 minutes.

Outside of the US? You can convert your time zone here.

What do I need for class?

All you need for class is a computer and a phone. You may also want to take notes during our time together each week.

What happens if I cannot make a class?

Classes will be recorded for future listening and each attendee will be given an MP3 to review missed classes. Many attendees may also benefit from listening to each class two or three times.

How much is My Healthier Life?

There are two options for making an investment in My Healthier Life. You can make a one-time payment of $249.00 by clicking the Buy Now button below or agree to making three monthly installments of $99.00 each.

I still have questions. How can I reach you?

You can email me at amanda@hopeforbpd.com or telephone me at (941) 704-4328. I'm happy to help.

Registration is now closed for My Healthier Life.

To be placed on waiting list for our next class, please send an email to amanda@hopeforbpd.com.