Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterised by significant fluctuations in mood, energy levels, and activity. These changes, which can impact one’s ability to function in daily life, can range from extreme highs (mania or hypomania) to devastating lows (depression). As a psychiatrist, it is crucial to communicate the intricacies of this condition in…
In Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), self-as-context is one of the six core processes for cultivating psychological flexibility. This concept refers to the perspective that individuals can observe their thoughts, feelings, sensations, roles, and identities without being entangled. It is a subtle but powerful shift from “I am my thoughts” to “I am the one…
Value clarification is one of the six core processes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a mindfulness-based behavioural therapy designed to increase psychological flexibility. While many therapeutic approaches focus on reducing distress or managing symptoms, ACT takes a different approach. It encourages people to live meaningful lives by identifying what truly matters to them—their values—and…
It is the opposite of EXPERIENTIAL AVOIDANCE. Psychological flexibility is the cornerstone of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a form of psychotherapy that integrates mindfulness and behavioural science. It refers to the ability to be present with what is happening in the moment, including thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, and to take actions that…
Experiential Avoidance means avoiding or getting rid of painful thoughts, feelings, or memories, even when doing so makes life worse. Instead of facing discomfort, you run from it, numb it, or distract yourself—but this often leads to more problems in the long run.You feel anxious, so you skip a class or meeting.You feel sad,…
Cognitive defusion is a core concept within Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a psychological approach that emphasises mindfulness and psychological flexibility. At its essence, cognitive defusion involves changing how individuals relate to their thoughts, rather than trying to eliminate or suppress them. It aims to create a mental space where thoughts are seen as transient,…
In ACT, cognitive fusion refers to becoming so entangled in thoughts that they appearas the absolute truth and dictate one’s actions. Cognitive Fusion: When Your Thoughts Stick Like Glue Have you ever been so immersed in a thought that it seemedentirely accurate, even if it wasn’t beneficial? Maybe you thought, “I’m a failure,” and it lingered…
The ACT matrix is a visual tool. You are at the centre; the horizontal lines represent actions, and the vertical lines represent behaviours we engage in daily. This is an example of an ACT matrix. You are standing in the middle, observing what is happening and choosing your actions. These must be based on your…
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is built on a model known as the Hexaflex, which outlines six core processes that promote psychological flexibility—the ability to adapt to life’s challenges while staying aligned with one’s values. Rather than focusing on eliminating distress, ACT helps individuals change their relationship with complex thoughts and emotions, allowing them to live more…
We have agendas at work and home. We thrive on making plans and acting according to those plans and targets. In our society, we are expected to fulfill certain milestones, such as achieving a good grade in +2, attending a renowned university, securing a good job, getting married, and so on. These values become ingrained…
