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