Applying acceptance and commitment therapy addressing stress and fatigue in persons with acquired deafblindness

This article explores the consequences of acquired deafblindness from a stress theory perspective and illustrates how Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can be applied to address the resulting psychological challenges. Living with acquired deafblindness entails continuous adaptation to sensory loss, communication barriers, and social exclusion, all of which can contribute to chronic stress and fatigue. Drawing on experiences from the regional Deafblind Team in Stockholm, Sweden, the article describes how stress theory provides a useful framework for understanding the psychological impact of deafblindness and how ACT – by validating life’s inherent difficulties and enhancing psychological flexibility – can support individuals in coping with these complex stressors. Practical adaptations of a manual-based ACT group intervention are presented, highlighting considerations specific to the deafblind population. The Stockholm experience offers potential inspiration for future implementation and development of interventions for well-being within Nordic deafblind rehabilitation practice.