Participate is a DBT “what” skill that involves fully participating in the moment without thoughts, judgment, and self-consciousness. Participating in the moment allows us to break free from overwhelming thoughts and emotions that may hinder our experience. When we participate actively and with awareness, we can experience a deeper level of engagement and reduce judgmental thoughts.
The DBT Participate Mindfulness "What" Skill handout provides helpful instructions for clients to engage in and give their full attention to the present moment. Moreover, it offers five tips to practice participating. This includes dancing without feeling self-conscious and immersing themselves in a conversation without preoccupations.
Using this handout helps kids and teens increase mindfulness and experience reduced stress. As a parent, you can show support by infusing your child’s daily routine with active engagement. For instance, let them start their day with a singing session in the shower. You can also include them in shared activities like cooking or baking to spark moments of meaningful connection.
A helpful add-on is our DBT “What” Skills Worksheets, which include a 1-page participate worksheet to support application of the skills from this handout. You can also purchase our DBT “What” Skills handout for a quick reference to all three mindfulness “what” skills.
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References:
- Garland, S. N., Tamagawa, R., Todd, S. C., Speca, M., & Carlson, L. E. (2012b). Increased mindfulness is related to improved stress and mood following participation in a Mindfulness-Based stress reduction program in individuals with cancer. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 12(1), 31–40. https://doi.org/10.1177/1534735412442370
