Learning to overcome a drug or alcohol addiction is about far more than just abstaining from substance abuse. It is also about learning to live life to the fullest and resolve any underlying issues that first led to the addiction. One of the more effective strategies used at drug counseling centers is called acceptance and commitment therapy. Find out how ACT can be one of the tools in your fight against addiction.
What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy?
ACT is a type of one-on-one talk therapy. It has three major goals, and they are easy to remember because they spell out ACT. A is all about acceptance, which is no easy feat for people struggling with addiction.
C stands for choosing a direction. Therapists don’t tell clients what to do with their futures. Instead, they ask them to think carefully about what they really want for the years ahead. By choosing their own future, they are more likely to commit to those plans.
T, finally, stands for taking action. The final part of the program is about helping clients make concrete plans and then pursue those plans. Sometimes, it means offering practical support so that clients can pursue new jobs, relationships, or paths in the future.
Clients Develop Custom Strategies for Acceptance
One of the reasons that acceptance and commitment therapy works so well is because participants learn how to truly accept things. This is easier said than done, so clients need help developing customized strategies for acceptance. This starts with recognizing that while no one can control their environments, they can control how they feel. Accepting this is a massive step in the right direction.
Clients Learn to Defuse Overwhelming Situations
The second emphasis in ACT is learning to defuse overwhelming situations. When clients are faced with extreme stress, sadness, grief, or anger, the sensations can be intense. There may be negative self-talk and clients might even assume that relapse is inevitable. Learning to defuse these situations is a much healthier coping mechanism concerning relapse or any other rash decisions that could negatively impact your life.
There is an Emphasis on Living in the Moment
Finally, ACT asks clients to focus on the present. That is far more than just a cliche, however. Living in the moment is about recognizing how you feel and accepting those feelings, but not letting them dictate your actions. Once mastered, this can be incredibly freeing.
Supplementing ACT in Addiction Recovery Programs
In addition to Joliet acceptance and commitment therapy, clients should take advantage of other approaches to recovery. The best way to achieve sobriety is through a custom and comprehensive strategy that includes a number of therapies and treatment methods. Some of the most effective can include:
- 12-Step philosophy
- Group therapy
- Individual behavioral therapy
- Dual diagnosis support
- Holistic therapies
Acceptance and commitment therapy can be a fantastic way to work toward sobriety. In conjunction with other therapies, it can help clients as they begin their journey toward health, happiness, and greater fulfillment in life.