Invisible Injuries- Mental health ambassadors

S03 - Dealing with unwelcome thoughts 10

October 22, 2021

opened up medical kit with closeup of bandages and message in text

"Fast forwarding the DVD of your life"

Is a technique used to bypass problem thinking, create a context of well-formed goals, encourage expectations of change, get info on how a veteran/first responder can make progress, find out things they can do, which will get them where they want to be.

Before being asked the veteran, first responder they key question of this technique...it's important to ask for information about their current difficulties or problem situation.

Next get their full attention and asking permission to "ask an unusual question"

Once agreed ask "Just suppose, over there in the corner is a TV and DVD. In its a DVD of your life in, say, six months time, when you've got everything sorted.

You start the DVD...what will be the first thing you'll see on the TV to let you know your problem is now solved? or you are coping much better with any physical limitation you may have?

"what will you be doing differently?" "what else will you be doing?" "what different reactions might you see in those closest to you?" What else? "how will our thinking have changed" how else?

For best results –“horses for courses” applies. Some might find one tool or technique helpful, others will experiment with another that proves helpful. All are available to try and it’s often about finding “what works” for you.

🖨 reprinted with permission @johnhendenauthor
@wiley-publishing @beatingcombatstress