Exam Pass Notes

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Key Takeaways

• ACT-informed stress management helps care staff notice thoughts and feelings without being driven by them.
• Psychological flexibility is about staying present and choosing workable actions that match your professional values.
• Cognitive defusion creates distance from harsh self-talk such as "I am failing" or "I cannot cope".
• Acceptance means allowing difficult feelings while continuing to take responsible action; it is not resignation.
• Self-management techniques are not a substitute for addressing unsafe workloads, bullying, faulty equipment or significant mental ill health.

Useful ACT Skills

• Notice: label the thought, feeling or bodily response that is occurring.
• Defuse: create space with phrases like "I am having the thought that..." or "My mind is telling me...".
• Ground: bring attention to the feet, the breath, posture or the immediate task to stabilise focus.
• Accept: allow difficult feelings to be present without adding self-criticism.
• Act on values: pick the next small behaviour that supports dignity, safety, kindness or teamwork.

Care Home Examples

• Before personal care: pause, ground yourself, and reconnect with the resident's dignity and consent.
• After a complaint: notice self-critical thoughts, check the facts, and take the next professional step.
• During short staffing: set clear priorities, ask for assistance, and escalate recurring unsafe patterns.
• After emotionally heavy care: practise self-compassion and seek debriefing or support when needed.