True Recovery

States of Mind

In Dr. Linehan's book, she discusses three primary states of mind.  Take a look at the illustration (adapted from the DBT handout #1).  The three states are:

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  Reasonable Mind -- This is our logical side.  When in Reasonable Mind, we look at the facts, objectively evaluate them and decide our best course of action.  Let's use the example of someone shopping for a new car.  When in reasonable mind, we know we need a safe, fuel-efficient car, that's affordable.  We'll consider how many people will be riding in the car and make a decision based on our analysis.
   
• Emotional Mind -- This is our emotional side.  When in Emotional Mind, we consider our feelings first, and often ignore or minimize logic.  We may even start justifying our feelings by interpreting the facts to suit.  So, our car shopper, in emotional mind want's something fun and exciting, something that drives fast and looks sexy.  How about a Ferrari or a Porsche?  Here, we go with how we're feeling, our gut.
  
  
• Wise Mind -- This is our goal.  Wise mind is the fusion of our reasonable and emotional minds.  When in wise mind, we do the same logical thinking as in Reasonable mind, at the same time we also factor in our feelings, wants and desires.  So, in wise mind, the car shopper would look for a cost-effective, safe car that can comfortably hold everyone.... and balances that with the desire for something that looks attractive and is fun to drive.