Benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Chronic Pain

Authors

Maria Kleinstaeuber, Utah State UniversityFollow
Ashley Yaugher, Utah State UniversityFollow
Emily Roundy
Michael LevinFollow

Document Type

Factsheet

Publisher

Utah State University Extension

Publication Date

6-27-2024

First Page

1

Last Page

9

Abstract

Chronic pain is a common experience for people and can be difficult to manage. However, there are many evidence-based and effective psychological treatments for chronic pain to help people improve their lives. One of these is acceptance and commitment therapy, or ACT. ACT teaches how to accept pain and live a life full of meaning and quality, with pain. It helps individuals increase their quality of life through mindfulness-based methods, experiential processing, and a focus on values, goals, and actions. ACT has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving pain management and personal well-being. Consult the resources at the end of the fact sheet for additional learning on this topic.

Recommended Citation

Kleinstaeuber, M., Yaugher, A., Roundy, E., & Levin, M. (2024). Benefits of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for chronic pain [Fact sheet]. Utah State University Extension.