Do you know how to ACT?

Yes you heard us! Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a helpful therapy for managing the emotional impact of experiencing a physical health or long-term health condition. This is a therapy that our specialist Cognitive Behavioural Therapist Sian also offers, so we thought we’d tell you more about this on our blog (you can also find out more on our Instagram and Facebook pages – just search Lifted Therapy).

But… what is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Well, it focuses on mindfulness, being present in the moment, defusion techniques and acceptance and commitment to values-based living. It differs from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in that it doesn’t focus on challenging our thoughts but more accepting them for what they are – our thoughts!

ACT takes the idea that trying to avoid and “get rid of” our pain and distress only increases it causes us more emotional distress. Although, we talk about acceptance we don’t mean agreeing, suffering or being defeated – we mean, the acknowledgment to allow these experiences and identify them for what they are. We make room for painful feelings, thoughts and sensations, allowing them to be there, coming and going without us experiencing a sense of struggling.

ACT helps you to manage any stressors or barriers so that you can continue onwards – focusing on living your life in a meaningful way alongside your values!

What physical health conditions can ACT be helpful for?

We have included some physical health conditions below, but this is not an exhaustive list and ACT can be helpful if you have been recently diagnosed with a health condition too.

• Heart conditions
• Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes
• Asthma
• COPD
• Long Covid
• Cancer
• Chronic pain and restricted mobility
• Skin conditions including rashes and acne
• Digestive conditions including IBS

How can ACT help me?

ACT can be helpful in different ways but it’s focus is to help with:

• Clarify your personal values that you want to prioritise and nurture in your life
• Mindfulness to help you reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing
• Reduce emotional distress, managing thoughts and developing self-compassion
• Helps adopt new ways of coping and healthier behaviours including self-care

If you want to know more or you feel that ACT might be helpful for you. Please book an appointment with Sian on our website, she will be able to talk through what support would be most helpful for you – helping you to feel more like you again.