Emotion Diary
A weekly DBT emotion diary recording emotion intensity, prompting events, body sensations, urges and actions, with a reflection on patterns.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Emotion regulation
- Approach / concern
- DBT
- Technique
- Emotion regulation
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the Emotion Diary?
An emotion diary is a self-monitoring tool used in DBT emotion regulation to observe and describe emotions, including their prompting events, physical sensations, action urges and actual behaviours.
Why it works
Observing and describing emotions is the first step in DBT’s model of emotion regulation (Linehan, 2015). Monitoring builds awareness and helps identify where skills can be applied.
When to use it
- Emotion dysregulation
- DBT emotion regulation module
- Clients who feel overwhelmed by ‘all of a sudden’ emotions
- Mood and anxiety disorders
How to use it in session
- Explain the components of an emotion.
- Log strong emotions daily.
- Review patterns in session.
- Identify skills for common emotions.
- Continue tracking to measure change.
Clinician tips
- Brief entries are fine.
- Include positive emotions too.
- Link urges with opposite action or check the facts.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Should I record every emotion?
Focus on strong or significant emotions; a few entries per day is plenty.
What’s an action urge?
The impulse an emotion creates, like wanting to hide when ashamed or attack when angry.
References
Linehan, M. M. (2015). DBT skills training manual (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Linehan, M. M. (2015). DBT skills training handouts and worksheets (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
