02/12/2026
Opposite action may be a new therapy buzzword on TikTok, but what actually is this DBT practice?
🔄Opposite action encourages the inversion of instinct in order to change one’s emotions!
🤔For example, when you’re feeling upset or emotionally withdrawn, your instinct may be to retreat. It might feel easier to just stay in bed, not to move or eat, and listen to sad music. Opposite action, however, encourages you to do exactly what you don’t want to do: move, socialize, or go outside. By forcing yourself to alter your instinctual behavior, you’re also making the conscious effort to change your emotions.
🔂You can repeat the opposite action until you feel the change of emotion—you just need a bit of patience and an open mind. Next time your emotions feel overwhelming for your situation, try opposite action and see how you feel afterwards. You might like the change!
