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