RCCS Tidbit of the Month: Our Wise Mind

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The following post is from our Recovery-Centered Clinical System (RCCS) Tidbit of the Month series. Each month, the RCCS Steering Committee creates practices to support our recovery culture within our programs and among staff. Click here to learn more about the RCCS.

RCCS Tidbit of the Month: Our Wise Mind

A Component of the Five Awarenesses of the RCCS Program Culture

Understanding Emotional, Rational, and Wise Minds

We all encounter moments when emotions guide our actions and other times when logic and facts drive our decisions. In Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), there are two distinct “states of mind”: the emotional and rational.

Emotional Mind

When our emotions become strong enough to influence our thinking and decision-making, we are in our emotional mind. You might wonder, “Does being an emotional person mean I’m always in my emotional mind?” Not exactly. The critical difference is whether your emotions control your thoughts, actions, and decisions. It’s possible to be very emotional and still maintain control.

Certain situations can make us more prone to being in our emotional mind, such as physical illness, alcohol or drug use, extreme hunger, sleep deprivation, or high stress. These factors can impair our ability to think clearly and make thoughtful decisions.

Rational Mind

The rational mind represents a state where decisions are made based on logic and facts, often disregarding emotions and personal values. However, focusing solely on the facts and practical aspects doesn’t always equate to being reasonable. If rational thinking ignores the importance of values and feelings, it might cloud our judgment, just like the emotional mind can.

Wise Mind

DBT introduces a balanced approach known as the wise mind, which incorporates elements of both the emotional and rational minds. In the wise mind, we know our emotions while considering facts and logic. This state of mind allows us to make decisions that align with our values and experiences, leading to desired outcomes.

Helping Clients and Members Access Their Wise Mind

Just like us, clients and members may struggle to access their wise minds, significantly when intense emotions hinder decision-making or feelings of anxiety and stress cause them to feel stuck. Our program staff is crucial in helping clients and members recognize these mental states and teaching mindfulness techniques to access their wise minds.

Practice:

Discover what works best for you and continue practicing until these habits become second nature.

  • Mindfulness Practice:

    1. Find a Quiet Space: Sit comfortably in a place free of distractions.

      Focus on Your Breathing: Pay attention to the sensations of air flowing into your nose and out of your mouth, or notice your belly rising and falling as you breathe in and out.

      Clear Your Mind: After centering on your breath, quiet your thoughts and let go of any arising emotions.

      Reflect: Once calm, consider your current situation or choices.

  • Mindfulness Strategies for Specific Emotions:

    1. When Angry: Pause until you can think clearly.

    2. When Overwhelmed: Write down your tasks, then tackle them individually.

    3. When Insecure: Focus on appreciating and accepting your strengths and flaws.

    4. When Rejected: Acknowledge these feelings are challenging, but don’t let them take over.

    5. When Discouraged: Be kind to yourself and remember why you’re trying.

    6. When Anxious: Focus on the present moment and do a “Stop, Breathe, and Think” activity.