Beyond BPD: DBT as an evidence-based treatment for multiple disorders

Every 5 years or so one of our peak bodies (The Australian Psychological Society) undertakes a review of the literature to determine which therapies demonstrate an evidence base for a variety of mental health conditions. They then rank this information in terms of the level of evidence ranging from a single case study through to a comprehensive statistical analysis of multiple randomised controlled trials (a meta-analysis or systematic review of other high-quality studies).

The fifth edition of this literature review was released in late 2024 and highlighted DBT’s growing evidence base. DBT has long been known as a gold-standard treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). However, the literature review also indicated that DBT has Level 1 evidence in the treatment of Binge Eating Disorder. Additionally, DBT has level 2 evidence for treating Depression, Bipolar disorder, Bulimia and PTSD.

There is a smaller but notable evidence base for DBT in the treatment of Anorexia Nervosa and Substance Use Disorders. Given DBT’s wide applicability it’s unsurprising that is the treatment of choice where there are several mental health conditions co-occurring (eg: PTSD, Depression and binge eating). This is particularly the case where there have been suicide attempts or deliberate self-harm, or where a core issue would seem to be uncontrollable emotional ups and downs.

At DBTBrisbane we undertake a battery of outcome measures at the start and end of the program that measure a variety of symptoms from a variety of disorders. This recent literature review confirms what our own data has been showing for years – that DBT is an effective treatment for BPD, Depression, PTSD, substance use and more!