The effectiveness of a short-term DBT skills group in a 'real-world' clinical setting

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a short-term outpatient DBT (DBT-S) skills group for individuals experiencing pervasive emotion dysregulation (PED).

Pre-and post-group outcome data consisted of self-report measures and six-month Mental Health admissions and Emergency Department presentations.

Group completers reported significant improvements in psychological distress, depression, borderline symptomatology and functional impairment, increases in 'skills use' and decreases in 'dysfunctional coping', associated with symptomatic improvement. There were reduced numbers of Mental Health presentations and admissions between six months pre- and post-group.

Findings support emerging evidence for DBT-S as an effective, viable treatment for PED.