Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Alcohol use disorder

Abstract

Alcohol use problems often stem from cycles of psychological inflexibility, where individuals engage in struggle and avoidance of painful internal experiences. This article reviews and synthesizes the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for individuals facing these challenges. ACT enhances psychological flexibility through six core processes: acceptance, cognitive defusion, present moment awareness, self-as-context, values, and committed action. The authors synthesize these processes into three primary mechanisms: 1) cultivating openness to internal experiences, 2) returning to a mindful center of awareness, and 3) engaging in meaningful and values-based living. The article examines practical techniques and therapeutic metaphors designed to transform one's relationship with internal suffering and initiate new behaviors aligned with personal values. Key findings demonstrate that ACT represents a paradigmatic shift from symptom elimination toward empowering individuals to live meaningfully despite the presence of psychological pain. This positions ACT as an auspicious approach for individuals who do not respond to traditional therapeutic modalities.