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