What are some examples of distress tolerance skills?

Distress tolerance skills are essential components of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), designed to help individuals manage and endure emotional distress without making the situation worse. The focus of such skills is to enhance an individual’s ability to cope with crises and uncomfortable emotions in a healthy manner.

The correct choice includes distraction techniques, self-soothing, and acceptance practices. Distraction techniques, such as engaging in a hobby or practicing mindfulness, are effective for redirecting attention away from distressing thoughts or feelings. Self-soothing refers to nurturing oneself through comforting activities that target the senses, such as listening to music or taking a warm bath, which can help alleviate emotional pain. Acceptance practices encourage individuals to acknowledge their feelings without judgment, promoting an understanding that distressing emotions are temporary and manageable.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent distress tolerance skills. While mind mapping and cognitive flexibility may be part of problem-solving strategies, they do not directly address immediate emotional distress. Medication therapy can be helpful in managing mental health symptoms, but it is not classified under distress tolerance skills within DBT. Similarly, cognitive restructuring aims to change thought patterns, which is related to managing emotions but not about tolerating current distress. The reference to emotional avoidance in one of the choices