What’s Inside:
My life, like many others’, had become a series of evasions. Each day was about dodging uncomfortable emotions, eluding difficult tasks, and in the most destructive manner, escaping the reality of my addiction. But the day I stepped into the world of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I unknowingly embarked on a journey towards genuine transformation.
Engaging with Mindfulness-based behavioral Therapy began with understanding what set it apart. While both ACT and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are considered effective psychotherapy methods, there’s a fundamental difference in their approaches. In the debate of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy vs CBT, I discovered that while CBT works on the premise of altering one’s thought patterns to impact emotions and behaviors positively, ACT invites individuals to embrace their thoughts and feelings without the urge to resist, deny, or change them.
Delving into the history of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy offered context and depth to my experience. Developed in the late 20th century, ACT emerged as a distinctive branch of clinical behavior analysis. It was based on Relational Frame Theory, It focused on how humans learn language and how language can lead to ineffective ways of handling life’s problems.
The goals of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy were straightforward yet profound. ACT wasn’t about fighting my demons; it was about learning to dance with them. It was about developing psychological flexibility to stay present and pursue long-term values despite the pain I felt.
In my sessions, I learned that criticisms of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy focused on its unconventional treatment approach. Critics argued that it could be non-directive and overly broad. But to me, its breadth was its strength. It provided a framework that was adaptable to the complexities of my personal struggles with addiction.
Applying Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for anxiety was particularly life-altering. Instead of running away from my anxiety or trying to suppress it, ACT taught me to acknowledge its presence and sit with it. This was not a process of resignation, but rather an act of empowerment. By accepting my anxiety, I was taking its power away and diminishing its hold over my actions.
One of the most practical aspects of ACT was the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy exercises. These exercises weren’t just tasks; they were revelations. They included mindfulness practices, journaling, and metaphors that helped me see my thoughts as transient, manageable, and not definitive of my reality.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy techniques such as cognitive diffusion—a method where you learn to separate yourself from your thoughts, seeing them as merely words passing through your mind—brought a new sense of freedom. I could notice a thought like “I need a drink to get through this” and not automatically react to it. I could choose my response rather than being yanked by the whims of my mind.
Through ACT, I discovered that life’s beauty lies in its complexity, pain, and the rich tapestry of human emotions. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy didn’t just help me address my addiction; it revolutionized my relationship with myself and the world around me.
For anyone struggling with the shadows of addiction, I extend a heartfelt message: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can be a beacon in the haze. It’s not just therapy; it’s a philosophy for life.
At Uplift Recovery, the principles of ACT are interwoven into our treatment programs, offering a nuanced approach to recovery that respects the individuality of each person’s journey. By calling us at 866-979-5848, you take a brave step towards embracing your experiences and pursuing a life aligned with your deepest values. Our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way. It’s time to stop avoiding the pain and start embracing the beautiful complexity of life.
Uplift Recovery Center provides you with recovery in a loving, professional environment.
