Effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Mental Health Issues: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Background: Mental health disorders rank among the most common psychiatric conditions, with lifetime prevalence rates that have a significant effect on the global population. Although CBT is still the most generally recommended psychosocial intervention for mental health problems, a significant number of patients do not fully react to therapy, which results in persistent symptoms. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has gained worldwide attention as a promising intervention with a growing body of empirical support across a variety of mental health conditions.

Summary: A systematic review was conducted to evaluate ACT's impact on mental health. Comprehensive searches of Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Shodganga, along with reference and citation checks, yielded 15 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Four independent reviewers assessed the studies for eligibility, methodological rigor, and data extraction. The findings revealed that ACT consistently reduces symptom severity, improves emotional regulation, enhances life satisfaction, and increases psychological flexibility. However, common methodological limitations include small sample sizes, lack of long-term follow-ups, and limited control group comparisons.

Key message: ACT demonstrates significant promise as a trans-diagnostic intervention adaptable to various mental health issues. Despite its evident benefits in symptom reduction and psychological well-being, further research addressing methodological constraints is crucial to optimize its clinical applications and establish its long-term efficacy.