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