ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT THERAPY, A NEW WAY TO COPE WITH PAIN…

Pain is a natural experience in life but chronic pain is completely different. Long term pain can be one of the most difficult things to adjust to when living with the condition.

Acceptance and commitment therapy – spreading the idea that a lot of happiness is about learning to live alongside painful emotions rather than getting rid of them

ACT is different from the usual CBT which is used for chronic pain as it focuses on moving towards a vital life, rather than on pain managment. in ACT, the thought is accepted as a thought, e.g. “I am having the thought that this boat is going to sink”, and then defused using a variety of techniques, which may include mindfulness, metaphors and language.

It emphasis observing thoughts and feelings as they are without trying to change them and behaving in ways consistent with goals and life directions,.

It aims to help people create a rich and meaningful life while accepting the negativity that inevitbly comes with it.

In an article in Pain Matters they talk about how the workplace can too often be a challenging place for people in pain.

A quarter of those living with chronic pain will go onto lose their jobs. The workplace can be a challenge for anyone managing pain with 50 per cent of those with rheumatoid arthritis leaving work within a year. Hazel Muir explains to Pain Matters the importance of knowing your rights and being able to explain about your pain to employers and colleagues. Pop along to Pain Matters to read Hazel Muir’s full transcript on this matter.

 

 

 

 

.