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From DBT Skills Training Handouts and Worksheets, Second Edition  by Marsha M. Linehan. Copyright 2015 by Marsha M. Linehan. Permission 
to photocopy this handout is granted to purchasers of this book for personal use only (see copyright page for details). General Handout 1a  
options for Solving a ny problem
When life presents you with problems, what are your options?
1. Solve T he p roBlem
Change the situation . . . or avoid, leave, or get out of the situation for good.
2. feel Be TTer aB ouT The p roBlem
Change (or regulate) your emotional response to the problem.
3. Tolera Te The p roBlem
Accept and tolerate both the problem and your response to the problem.
4. STay m iSeraBle
Or possibly make it worse!
1. To p roBlem-Solve:
Use interpersonal effectiveness skills
Walking the Middle Path (from interpersonal effectiveness skills)
Use problem-  solving skills (from emotion regulation skills)
2. To f eel Be TTer aB ouT The p roBlem:
Use emotion regulation skills
3. To Tolera Te The p roBlem:
Use distress tolerance and mindfulness skills
4. To S Tay m iSeraBle:
Use no skills!