[Wingnut13]

I saw my T today(first time in 3 weeks) and she told me she is putting me in her DBT group that starts next month. She knows my anxiety goes really high when I am in a group setting. She then proceeds to tell me that I will be the only man in the group . My anxiety went through the roof and now I am already having a bad panic attack. It's so bad I am shaking. I need some alcohol to calm me down.

DBT is a good thing............. seriously - CONGRATULATIONS

you will find out that DBT (especially the group therapy part) is a great thing. It is clearly the best part of my entire week!

[Espresso]

I was also a bit apprehensive and skeptical about the group part of DBT when I started. But now as long as I'm not asked to talk, I'm fine. I really hate being forced to give answers or read stuff out loud though. Good luck! Try to give it a chance before you decide not to go.

[hawaii04]

I have heard nothing but good of DBT. I struggle also with the anxiety of being in groups, feeling like I'm in the spotlight when I really just want to hide. I think once you're there and hear the familiarity of others, it may be easier than you are thinking. I'm sure some of them feel the same way ~ that has been my experience with social settings and then I wonder why I got so worked up in the first place. I was anticipating what my T recommended in going to DBT, but she checked and unfortunately there's no program as such in my area. I am disappointed . . . I say take the opportunity, reap the benefits and giving yourself a pat on the back for doing something good for yourself.

[lynn808]

I miss DBT group, since I went in a day hospital setting. I don't think there is a local one around me. I do relate to the uncomfortableness of being around others....but you may even find a friend...or someone you can relate to.....good luck...and positive thoughts to keep you strong!!!! take care now

[vans1974]

Originally Posted by Wingnut13

I saw my T today(first time in 3 weeks) and she told me she is putting me in her DBT group that starts next month. She knows my anxiety goes really high when I am in a group setting. She then proceeds to tell me that I will be the only man in the group . My anxiety went through the roof and now I am already having a bad panic attack. It's so bad I am shaking. I need some alcohol to calm me down.

Sorry to hear! DBT is the only therapy that's worked for me! Best of luck!!

I know all to well of your anxiety - i absolutely loathe groups.

DBT is generally held in groups so unless you're offered another form of treatment i would suggest working on the issue with your T as much as possible beforehand and just keep tabs on the situation. You might feel better after the first few sessions...

[Wingnut13]

Originally Posted by Spockette

I know all to well of your anxiety - i absolutely loathe groups.

DBT is generally held in groups so unless you're offered another form of treatment i would suggest working on the issue with your T as much as possible beforehand and just keep tabs on the situation. You might feel better after the first few sessions...

She said I will have 2 appts a week. One will be group and the other will be private with her. I'm gonna give it a try. Hoping my anxiety and panic attacks go away after a few group sessions. I am very comfortable with my T and completely trust her. So I will follow the direction she is taking me.

[hawaii04]

Originally Posted by Wingnut13

She said I will have 2 appts a week. One will be group and the other will be private with her. I'm gonna give it a try. Hoping my anxiety and panic attacks go away after a few group sessions. I am very comfortable with my T and completely trust her. So I will follow the direction she is taking me.

Good for you; you have a great head start in being comfortable with your T and trusting her. I do hope all goes well with you in your new journey.

[doglover1979]

I understand feeling nervous about a group, but a big part of what is learned in DBT is tolerating other people, maintaining boundaries, and lessening the anxiety many of us feel around others.

Social anxiety is definitely something that I have suffered, especially in times of stress. I feel like the group has really helped me work through a lot of it.

I find that the fact that it is a class rather than a process group to be very helpful. The focus is on the work rather than the details of personal problems. In my group, the therapists are very strict about this.

I met someone once that described DBT as "feelings school" I think it is the perfect description!

Good luck, just remember that most people that start DBT are either really worried or annoyed by the group aspect. You are certainly not alone!

[RAWRcarrie]

I was really anxious in group settings as well, but dbt group really helped me learn a lot of coping skills that I am still applying to my daily life. Give it chance you're probably not the only one in the group who's anxious.