How Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Can Help with Addiction Treatment

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a method of talking and thinking that has been growing in popularity over the past few years. In fact, it has been repeatedly shown to be effective in treating a variety of problems, such as phobias, anxiety, depression, self-image issues, and substance use. In this article, we will explore how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can be useful in helping people who struggle with addiction. The main idea behind this type of therapy is that you must first accept that you have a problem before you try to solve it. If you don’t believe in yourself and your ability to change, then it is much harder to do so after the fact.

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that emphasizes the present moment. There are two main ideas behind ACT that are relevant to addiction treatment: Acceptance and Mindfulness, in addition to a focus on values. 

Acceptance 

The first step in dealing with addiction is acknowledging that you have a problem and that you are responsible for fixing it. This might sound like common sense, but many people try to deny their feelings in an effort to make their lives easier. This leads to self-deception and denial, which can make treatment much more difficult. 

Mindfulness 

When people are depressed or anxious, they often focus on their negative feelings. ACT tries to help people move away from these thoughts and focus on the here and now. By doing so, you can start to see your problems as they truly are, and not as a sea of negativity.

How ACT Helps with Addiction Treatment

Acceptance helps you to truly understand your addiction and the problems it causes in your life. If you are constantly fighting against your addiction, you are likely to feel a lot of stress. Acceptance can help you to let go of this stress and move forward in your recovery. Mindfulness is important because it helps you to focus on the positive aspects of your life. This can help you avoid falling into a dangerous and self-destructive cycle of negativity. ACT also tries to help people focus on their values. This can help you to stay motivated and remind you why you are working on your addiction.

ACT can be a very useful method of treatment for those struggling with addiction. It encourages you to fully accept your addiction and the problems it causes in your life, and then commit yourself to overcome it. It also helps you to focus on the positive aspects of your life and the things that are important to you. Overall, ACT can be a great tool in addiction treatment that can help you to live a happier and healthier life.

How to Use ACT in Addiction Treatment

First, you must make the decision to accept your addiction and get help. You must be open to the possibility that you might need help and decide to accept it. This might mean admitting to yourself and others that you have a serious problem and need to change your behavior. Once you have decided to get help, you must fully commit yourself to the process. This might mean changing your lifestyle, spending time with people who support you, and having the courage to confront and move beyond your problems. 

Now that you are ready to work on your addiction, you can start using ACT to facilitate your recovery. Focus on the present moment and use your breath to help with cravings and negative feelings. Try to avoid thinking about the past or the future and focus on what you can do in the present to help yourself. When you notice negative thoughts, try to let them pass without judgment and return your focus to the present. Remember to focus on your values as you move through recovery. This can help you stay motivated and remind you why you are working on your addiction.

Recovery With Nova

At Nova Recovery Center, Houston we provide our patients with a very comfortable detox process, where medical professionals provide monitoring and care around the clock. You will be provided with all the medications you need to combat the withdrawal symptoms. You will then be enrolled in the in-patient recovery program where you’ll learn to stay away from drugs, through counseling, group therapy, and so on.

Nova Recovery Center commits to helping you overcome your addiction so you can get back to what is most important to you. If you or someone you know are struggling with addiction, Nova Recovery Center can provide support. We have locations in Austin, Houston, and Wimberley Texas. Call today to begin your journey in recovery at (888) 428-1501.