The ABC PLEASE skill is about fostering self-care, ensuring we’re equipped to contribute positively to the well-being of others. A critical aspect of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, it’s designed to diminish our susceptibilities. By investing in our own health and wellness, we substantially reduce our exposure to physical illness and emotional instability.
Here’s a round up of what ABC Please is all about. Start with A, then B, and C. Then go through PLEASE.
Accumulate positive emotions by doing things that are pleasant.
Engaging in activities that bring us joy contributes to the accumulation of positive emotions. These experiences, whether it’s a walk in the park, reading a good book, or spending time with loved ones, have the power to uplift our spirits and bring a sense of warmth and happiness into our lives. It’s these moments of positivity that can make a significant difference in our mindset and overall well-being. So, go ahead, do more of what makes you happy and watch as positivity takes root in your life.
Build mastery by doing things we enjoy. Whether it is reading, cooking, cleaning, fixing a car, working a cross word puzzle, or playing a musical instrument. Practice these things to build master and in time we feel competent.
Develop expertise by engaging in activities that bring us joy. This could be anything from reading a good book, whipping up a delicious meal, spring cleaning, delving into the mechanics of a car, challenging ourselves with a crossword puzzle, or producing melodies on a musical instrument. As we continue practicing these activities, we steadily improve our skills, eventually achieving mastery and a sense of competency.
Cope Ahead by rehearsing a plan ahead of time so that we can be prepared to cope skillfully.
Now work on the PLEASE portion.
Treat Physical Illness and take medications as prescribed.
When it comes to managing physical illnesses, adhering to your prescribed medication regimen is an essential step. Whether it’s hypertension, diabetes, or a seasonal flu, every illness requires appropriate treatment for effective recovery. Your healthcare provider has carefully evaluated your symptoms, medical history, and overall health status to prescribe the most suitable medication. Hence, it’s crucial to take them as directed to allow your body to heal, prevent complications, and ensure optimal health. Remember, the road to recovery is a process, and every medication taken as prescribed is a step in the right direction.
Balance eating in order to avoid mood swings.
A balanced diet plays a significant role in regulating our moods and overall mental well-being. Consuming a variety of foods rich in essential nutrients, such as complex carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals can help in maintaining stable blood sugar levels, thereby reducing mood swings. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats may lead to fluctuations in blood sugar, resulting in mood instability. Thus, mindful eating habits are not just beneficial for our physical health, but also for our emotional state.
Avoid mood-Altering substances and have mood control.
Avoiding mood-altering substances, such as alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine, is a key aspect of maintaining mental balance and mood control. These substances can often lead to an initial period of relaxation or euphoria, but their long-term impact can be quite detrimental, leading to addiction, withdrawal symptoms, and significant mood swings. Instead, focus on cultivating healthy habits for managing stress and emotions. This could include mindfulness practices, regular physical exercise, or engaging in hobbies and activities that you enjoy. These methods not only provide a natural and healthy means of mood regulation, but also contribute positively to overall well-being.
Maintain good sleep so you can enjoy your life.
Prioritizing quality sleep is fundamental to enhancing overall life enjoyment. A restful night’s sleep does more than just ward off exhaustion; it’s critically linked to cognitive function, emotional well-being, and physical health. When we consistently achieve quality sleep, we wake up invigorated, mentally sharp, and emotionally balanced, enabling us to tackle the day’s tasks with vigor and enthusiasm. Moreover, it has a profound impact on our creativity, problem-solving abilities, and mood, which directly feeds into our personal and professional relationships. Ignoring sleep or compromising on its quality can lead to fatigue, decreased concentration, and heightened stress levels, significantly diminishing life enjoyment. Therefore, making sleep a top priority is not an indulgence, but a necessity for a fulfilling and enjoyable life.
Get exercise to maintain high spirits.
Staying active doesn’t only contribute to physical health, but it’s also an effective strategy for mood enhancement. Regular physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, often known as “feel-good” hormones, which act as natural mood lifters. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a rigorous gym workout, or a peaceful yoga session, any form of exercise can help reduce feelings of anxiety, stress, and depression. Moreover, physical activity promotes better sleep, enhances self-confidence, and increases energy levels, all of which positively contribute to mood regulation. So, make it a point to incorporate a routine of physical activity into your daily schedule, not just for the sake of fitness, but as an investment in your emotional well-being.
