What is ACT?

ACT helps people to deal with the inevitable psychological pain and distress of life. ACT does not aim to eliminate this psychological pain and distress. Instead, ACT teaches people how to respond to painful thoughts and feelings in such a way that these experiences exert less influence over their actions. This way, more time is spent living a healthy life rather than fighting with thoughts and feelings. Many published studies support face-to-face ACT for people with anxiety or depression, but there is very little research into online ACT, which has not been tested with carers of people with dementia.

What challenges are we facing today?

Although providing support to a loved one with dementia is often accompanied with positive experiences, it can be hard at times. Research shows that family carers of people with dementia are much more likely to be depressed or anxious than other carers or non-carers and therefore need support with their mental health. Unfortunately, family carers are currently under-provided for by NHS psychological services. Some carers are unable to travel or do not have access to skilled therapists; for others, finding someone else to look after the person with dementia while the carer attends psychological services is difficult.