Health in the context of psychological flexibility and acceptance and commitment therapy

Abstract

Losing health is associated with an imbalance in one or more areas that are important to an individual. The spectacular achievements of modern medicine have made people believe that the only source of health is the treatment and reduction of symptoms. The ability to function in conditions of unavoidable discomfort can bring back an individual's loss of balance. The aim of this article is to present the model of Psychological Flexibility and its relationship with selected health aspects of an individual. According to the statement of the founders of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), suffering in various forms is an integral part of human life. In situations of discomfort that cannot be avoided, and with which an individual must learn to function on a daily basis over a longer period of time, ACT proposes the development of Psychological Flexibility, which strengthens the psyche and body's immune resistance. The COVID-19 pandemic, which has been going on for a year, has disrupted the macro balance. At the micro scale, this balance can be disturbed by chronic disease states such as pain, anxiety and depression. The above conditions reduce the quality of life and health. Psychological Flexibility shapes a set of skills that improve the quality of life, and also affect balance despite perceived discomfort. Psychological Flexibility is a base that has a wide application and significance for the quality of life and health. Its higher resources help an individual live a rich, worthwhile life despite suffering from pain, anxiety or pandemic stress.