The originator and pioneering researcher into Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) lays out the psychological flexibility skills that make it one of the most powerful approaches research has yet to offer. These skills have been shown to help even where other approaches have failed. Science shows that they are useful in virtually every area--mental health (anxiety, depression, substance abuse, eating disorders, PTSD); physical health (chronic pain, dealing with diabetes, facing cancer); social processes (relationship issues, prejudice, stigma, domestic violence); and performance (sports, business, diet, exercise).

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Part one :The need to pivot -- The dictator within -- Finding a way forward -- Why our thoughts are so automatic and convincing -- The problem with problem solving -- Turning toward the dinosaur -- We all have the ability to pivot -- Part two : Introduction : starting your ACT journey. The first pivot defusion - putting the mind on a leash -- The second pivot self - the art of perspective-taking -- The third pivot acceptance - learning from pain -- The fourth pivot presence - living in the now -- The fifth pivot values - caring by choice -- The sixth pivot action - committing to change -- Part three : Introduction : using your ACT toolkit to evolve your life. Adopting healthy behaviors -- Mental health -- Nurturing relationships -- Bringing flexibility to performance -- Cultivating spiritual well-being -- Coping with illness and disability.