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"Now I can see a life that is worth living"

About: Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Services / Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

(as a service user),

I was referred over to the DBT service back in April 2025. I struggled severely with emotional regulation and had no goals for a life worth living. I spent a year in programme which made a significant positive impact on my life. The DBT service is extremely well run by compassionate and empathetic individuals. I felt I was always listened to, understood and all treatment plans were explained to me well at all times. It was an environment that made feel safe and secure. It was a very holistic approach, even on the days when I felt it was the last place I wanted to be, I was met with compassion, understanding, empathy and positive encouragement which ultimately led me to continue my journey. As a result of the success I had within the programme, it helped me to continue my degree in third level education with major success and receive a first class honours in my placement that I struggled with during time by using the DBT resources I had received. It improved my relationships with my immediate family and close loved ones into extremely positive and fulfilling relationships. Importantly, it improved my relationship with myself and my self respect. I respected myself as a strong and important individual who deserved to receive this treatment and now I can see a life that is worth living. It taught me to accept who I am and that things can always change. The team worked very well together, with effective communication skills and positive relationships.

I believe this service can have the same positive impact on many individuals lives with similar struggles as it did on mine. 

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Responses

Response from Dr Niamh O'Connor, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Service, HSE 2 months ago
Dr Niamh O'Connor
Senior Clinical Psychologist, Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Service,
HSE

Senior Clinical Psychologist Sligo Leitrim Eating Disorders Service (SLEDS) Sligo Leitrim DBT Team

Submitted on 14/07/2026 at 09:55
Published on Care Opinion Ireland at 12:29


Liliymarie,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience of the DBT programme. We are truly grateful for your thoughtful and heartfelt feedback.

It is incredibly encouraging to hear how much you benefited from the programme and that you felt listened to, understood, and supported throughout your journey. Your description of feeling safe, even on the days when attending felt most difficult, reflects the courage and commitment you brought to the work. We are delighted to hear that the skills you developed have supported you not only in managing your emotions, but also in returning to your studies, achieving a first-class honours placement, strengthening your relationships with your family and loved ones, and, perhaps most importantly, improving your relationship with yourself.

We also hope that by sharing your experience, others who may be feeling uncertain or struggling to see a way forward will find hope and reassurance. Your story highlights that change is possible, and that with commitment, support, and the right skills, people can build lives that feel meaningful and worth living.

On behalf of the entire DBT team, thank you for recognising the compassion, empathy, and teamwork of our staff. We wish you every success and happiness as you continue your journey, and thank you again for allowing us to be part of it.

Dr Niamh O'Connor

DBT Team Lead

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