Key Takeaways
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a behavioral therapy that helps individuals struggling with substance use disorders develop psychological flexibility.
- Unlike traditional approaches that focus on eliminating cravings, ACT encourages acceptance of thoughts and emotions while committing to healthy behaviors.
- Studies show that ACT effectively reduces substance use by promoting mindfulness, acceptance, and value-driven behavior.
- ACT differs from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) by focusing less on changing thoughts and more on changing the relationship with them.
- ACT is effective in treating substance abuse, alcohol use disorder, and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Introduction
Addiction is more than just a physical dependence on substances. It often involves deep-seated emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns that keep individuals trapped in a cycle of cravings and relapse.
Traditional addiction treatments focus on controlling urges and avoiding triggers, but Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) takes a different approach. Instead of fighting cravings, ACT teaches people how to accept them without acting on them. This helps individuals develop psychological flexibility, making it easier to commit to a life free from addiction.
This article explores how ACT works in addiction treatment, its effectiveness, and why it has become a valuable tool in recovery programs.
What Is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based behavioral therapy that teaches individuals to accept difficult emotions and commit to positive behavioral changes. Instead of avoiding or suppressing distressing thoughts and cravings, ACT helps people develop psychological flexibility—the ability to cope with challenges while staying committed to their values.
Core Principles of ACT
ACT is based on six key principles that help individuals build resilience and break free from addictive behaviors:
- Acceptance – Recognizing that cravings and negative emotions are part of life rather than trying to suppress or avoid them.
- Cognitive Defusion – Learning to detach from negative thoughts instead of letting them dictate behavior.
- Being Present (Mindfulness) – Focusing on the present moment rather than being overwhelmed by past regrets or future worries.
- Self-as-Context – Understanding that thoughts and emotions do not define a person’s identity.
- Values Clarification – Identifying personal values that give life meaning and purpose.
- Committed Action – Taking steps toward positive changes that align with one’s values, even when challenges arise.
By applying these principles, individuals struggling with substance use disorders can change their relationship with addiction and develop healthier coping strategies.
How ACT Helps in Addiction Treatment
ACT is effective in treating substance use disorders by changing how individuals relate to their cravings, emotions, and behaviors.
1. Accepting Cravings Instead of Resisting Them
Traditional addiction treatments often emphasize avoiding triggers and suppressing cravings. However, ACT teaches that cravings are a normal part of recovery. Instead of trying to push them away, individuals learn to observe cravings without acting on them.
For example, instead of thinking, “I need to drink to feel better,” someone practicing ACT might say, “I notice the urge to drink, but I don’t have to act on it.”
This acceptance reduces the power of cravings and helps individuals make healthier choices.
2. Using Mindfulness to Break the Addiction Cycle
Mindfulness is a core part of ACT. It helps individuals stay present and detach from destructive thoughts and urges.
For people recovering from substance abuse, mindfulness can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety that often trigger drug or alcohol use.
- Help individuals recognize cravings without feeling overwhelmed by them.
- Improve emotional regulation, making relapse less likely.
By practicing mindfulness and acceptance, individuals can shift their focus from immediate relief to long-term recovery goals.
3. Identifying Personal Values and Committing to Change
Many people struggling with addiction feel disconnected from their values. ACT helps them identify what truly matters, such as relationships, health, and personal growth.
By setting goals aligned with their values, individuals find new motivation to stay sober. They learn to:
- Recognize how addiction conflicts with their values.
- Commit to healthier behaviors, such as attending therapy or rebuilding relationships.
- Develop a sense of purpose, which strengthens their recovery.
This value-based approach helps individuals stay committed to recovery even when cravings or difficult emotions arise.
4. Learning to Defuse Negative Thoughts
Many people in addiction recovery struggle with self-judgment and negative thinking. ACT teaches cognitive defusion, a technique that helps people detach from their thoughts rather than being controlled by them.
For example, instead of believing, “I’m a failure, so I might as well use,” ACT encourages a person to see this as just a passing thought—not a fact.
By changing their relationship with negative thoughts, individuals become less likely to relapse due to emotional distress.
ACT vs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Addiction Treatment
Both ACT and CBT are effective in treating substance use disorders, but they take different approaches:
| Aspect | Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) |
| Focus | Accepting emotions and committing to values | Changing negative thoughts and behaviors |
| Cravings | Accept and observe cravings without acting | Challenge and reframe cravings |
| Thought Patterns | Learn to detach from negative thoughts | Identify and replace negative thoughts |
| Long-Term Impact | Encourages flexibility and emotional resilience | Builds coping skills for managing triggers |
Both approaches can be used together in addiction treatment, providing individuals with a well-rounded recovery plan.
Effectiveness of ACT in Treating Substance Use Disorders
Studies have shown that ACT leads to a significant reduction in substance use, especially in individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders.
Key Findings on ACT’s Effectiveness:
- Research from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shows that ACT helps reduce drug and alcohol use by increasing psychological flexibility.
- Studies indicate that ACT is particularly effective for individuals with co-occurring depression and substance use disorders.
- Compared to treatment as usual, ACT has been linked to lower relapse rates and improved emotional well-being.
ACT is a valuable tool for individuals who struggle with shame, guilt, or emotional distress, which often contribute to addiction.
When to Seek ACT for Addiction Treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder, ACT may be an effective treatment option. Consider seeking professional help if you experience:
- Cravings and urges that feel uncontrollable.
- Repeated relapses despite attempts to quit.
- Emotional struggles, such as depression or anxiety, linked to substance use.
- Difficulty coping with stress without turning to drugs or alcohol.
Treatment centers like Virtue Recovery Center integrate ACT into comprehensive addiction programs to help individuals build lasting recovery.
Conclusion
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a powerful approach to addiction treatment that focuses on acceptance, mindfulness, and value-driven behavior. Unlike traditional methods that emphasize suppressing cravings, ACT teaches people how to coexist with cravings without acting on them.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, help is available. Virtue Recovery Center offers addiction treatment programs for you to start your journey to recovery.
Call 866-461-3339 today to start your journey toward a healthier, substance-free life.
FAQs About Using ACT for Substance Abuse Treatment
What is ACT, and how does it help with addiction?
ACT is a behavioral therapy that helps individuals accept cravings and difficult emotions while committing to actions that align with their values. It promotes psychological flexibility, making it easier to stay in recovery.
Can ACT be used with other therapies?
Yes. ACT is often combined with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), medication-assisted treatment, and group therapy for a comprehensive recovery plan.
Where can I find ACT for addiction treatment?
Virtue Recovery Center offers ACT as part of a comprehensive addiction treatment program. Call 866-461-3339 today to learn more.
What is Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) in addiction treatment?
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of behavioral therapy that focuses on helping individuals accept their thoughts and feelings instead of fighting or feeling guilty for them. In the context of addiction treatment, ACT aims to enhance psychological flexibility and promote behavior change related to substance use.
How does ACT therapy differ from traditional cognitive behavioral therapy?
While both act therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) aim to promote behavior change, ACT emphasizes acceptance and mindfulness strategies rather than altering negative thoughts. This distinction makes ACT particularly effective for addressing shame in substance use disorders.
What are the benefits of ACT for substance use treatment?
The benefits of ACT include improved psychological flexibility, reduced avoidance behaviors, and enhanced coping strategies for dealing with cravings and triggers associated with drug use. Research has shown that ACT can be effective in the treatment of substance use disorders.
Is ACT effective for all types of substance use disorders?
ACT has shown effectiveness across various substance use disorders, including alcohol use disorder and illicit drug use. However, its effectiveness can vary based on individual circumstances and the presence of co-occurring disorders.
How does ACT address shame in substance use disorders?
ACT addresses shame in substance use disorders by encouraging individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment. This acceptance can help reduce the impact of shame and promote healthier coping strategies.
Can ACT be combined with other therapies for addiction treatment?
Yes, ACT can be effectively combined with other therapies, such as dialectical behavior therapy and 12-step therapy, to enhance overall treatment outcomes. This combination can provide a more comprehensive approach to the treatment of substance use.
What does research say about the effectiveness of ACT in randomized controlled trials?
A review of literature indicates that ACT has demonstrated significant effectiveness in randomized controlled trials for the treatment of substance use disorders. These trials highlight ACT’s potential in promoting lasting behavior change.
Is web-based ACT an effective option for those struggling with substance use?
A: Web-based acceptance and commitment therapy has shown promise as an effective option for individuals struggling with substance use. This format can provide flexibility and accessibility for those who may not have access to in-person therapy.
How does relational frame theory relate to ACT in addiction treatment?
Relational frame theory underpins ACT by explaining how language and thought processes influence behavior. In addiction treatment, understanding these relationships can help individuals reframe their experiences and reduce their reliance on substances.
Resources
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S221214472400053X
