‘A Life Worth Living’ in Dialectical Behavior Therapy

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This is a core concept and guiding principle of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).  It refers to the idea that even in the presence of intense suffering, it is possible to build a meaningful and fulfilling life through change, acceptance, and skillful living. 

What a ‘life worth living’ means in DBT: 

  • Personal and Unique: It looks different for each person.  DBT therapists work with clients to define what they value and what they want their life to look like. 
  • Balancing Acceptance and Change: It’s not about eliminating all pain, but learning to live with it, cope effectively, and still move towards goals and values 
  • Creating Hope:  For people who feel hopeless or suicidal, this phrase represents the idea that things can improve – and that life can become worth staying alive for. 

Key DBT Skills That Support a ‘Life Worth Living’: 

  • Mindfulness – being present and aware of experiences without judgment. 
  • Distress Tolerance – surviving crises without making matters worse. 
  • Emotion Regulation – understanding and managing emotions. 
  • Interpersonal Effectiveness – building and maintaining healthy relationships. 

Even for those who are not experiencing intense suffering or hopelessness, we can all practice these skills and learn to build more meaning into our lives. 

Michelle is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor at VCS with experience using DBT practices with clients.

By Michelle S. Pennella, LMHC