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