Annual Aging Well Section
Growing older is a gift, but as you grow into your golden years, it’s important to stay on top of your health. Being mindful of health and wellness changes eases the aging process and prevents unnecessary worry so you can fully enjoy this season of life. Here, we talk to experts who share information about topics to be aware of as you age, along with preventative measures and treatment options.
By Lindsey June
Acceptance and commitment therapy is an alternative pain management treatment with a mindful approach.
What Is ACT?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 5 people in the United States suffer from chronic pain. This common and debilitating health condition can be tricky to treat and hard on an individual’s mental health, especially when it feels like nobody believes them.
Fortunately, there are ways to cope with chronic pain. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is one emerging option. This mindfulness-based therapy focuses on the connection between the mind and body using a biopsychosocial model. It helps patients accept what is beyond their control so that they can get back to the activities they love with a new perspective, adding to their overall quality of life.
How Does ACT Work?
ACT stems from cognitive and behavioral therapy, and encourages patients to accept their situation and set realistic goals. Chronic pain can lead to hopelessness and depression, as well as frustration when treatment options don’t alleviate symptoms. But when patients learn to address their pain on a cognitive level, they can avoid the fear that leads to limitations. Breaking free of mental barriers can make life more manageable and improve physical health along the way.
What to Expect?
Before starting ACT, your physical therapist will talk to you about your history of chronic pain: When did it start, where does it occur, and what other treatment options have you tried? From there, they’ll perform a musculoskeletal evaluation to determine the precise origin of the pain. Together, you’ll discuss the factors that influence your condition, like weather, temperature, and your autoimmune health. All of this helps your PT – and you – fully understand your pain so the acceptance therapy can begin.
The main focus of ACT is to help you return to the things you value doing in life. Through this compassionate, nonjudgmental, and mindful approach, you can find peace in your situation and get back to the life you once enjoyed.
