Happy 2021 everyone. May this be the year you find wellness.

I first started dbt at the end of 2018. I didn't finish it.
In 2019 my study schedule meant I could not attend any dbt. I decided to set 2020 aside to focus on it.

I started dbt foundations in January. I made it through til March when my Grandmother passed away suddenly.
 
I decided I needed to get back into group around June, all they had was a transitions group, I finished that and am now halfway through the foundations group again.

It has been life changing.

My main take aways are:
It WILL take time to get the hang of.
It's like learning a new language.
It takes practice. Every time you choose to use dbt skills, it's like building a muscle.
Mindfulness means paying attention to your thoughts. This is helpful because you learn to name what you're feeling. I still struggle with naming emotions but it definitely helps. 
Sometimes you've just gotta get through a crisis without making it worse. 
Don't underestimate how helpful and supportive others in the group can be. Although we know nearly nothing about each other outside of group, I have a soft spot for all my fellow dbt-ers.
Despite the negative feelings I first had when I was asked to cover my scars, I have come to fully appreciate the group being a trigger-free zone. Self harm/ substance abuse/ suicide can all be discussed in your 1:1. You're not being censored.
It's okay if you don't finish a cycle. Just stay in touch and ask to be put in the next group.

I also largely did all of this through zoom this year even though I was very, very resistant to the idea. So if that is the option in your area, don't let it dissuade you.

I hope this doesn't sound condesending. I had my doubts about dbt being this ~magical cure~. I believe I've had BPD since at least 16 years old, I struggled to get a correct diagnosis and did not get it til 24. I am now about to turn 32. It's been a long, hard road. I see posts regularly on this sub of people saying they know one day they'll die by suicide. I truly used to believe that too. I'm also not saying I'm 100% cured or that I won't have relapses, but I have better skills than I have ever had before. 

I'm leaving this sub (and this post was NOT meant to serve as a big explanation as to why), I just want to add it because, I truly feel that I no longer need the support that this sub once offered me. I am moving on in my recovery. Thank you for all your honesty, your DAE's, helping me feel less alone. Don't give up the fight, pals. You are loved, and you are worthy of a good life.