One of the most counterintuitive truths about bipolar disorder: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Bipolar Disorder Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of bipolar disorder
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking bipolar disorder is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging bipolar disorder without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing bipolar disorder to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for bipolar disorder while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Bipolar Disorder
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting bipolar disorder, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Bipolar Disorder
Many people find that when they stop fighting bipolar disorder and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of bipolar disorder is partly the struggle against it.