Understanding the Second Core Process of ACT: Cognitive Defusion
Cognitive defusion, the second core process in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), is essential for fostering psychological flexibility. It complements acceptance by helping individuals create distance from distressing thoughts, recognizing them as mere mental events rather than absolute truths. Techniques such as labeling thoughts, visualizing them as clouds, or repeating them aloud help lessen their impact, allowing for value-aligned actions. In the context of catastrophic human behaviors—like climate change—acceptance is crucial but insufficient. Without cognitive defusion, individuals may become fused with despairing beliefs, such as "It's too late," leading to inaction. By stepping back from these thoughts, individuals can think more clearly and creatively, revealing potential solutions obscured by cognitive fusion. The challenge lies in achieving collective psychological change across societies; widespread acceptance and defusion are necessary for effective action against environmental crises. Currently, many individuals are stuck in a cycle of denial and hopelessness, which hampers effective solutions. Breaking this cycle requires a concerted effort to practice acceptance and cognitive defusion collectively, enabling groups to recognize actionable pathways despite feelings of doubt and fear. Only through this combined effort can meaningful change and progress be realized.
The Global Challenge of Zero Hunger
The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) aims to end hunger and promote sustainable agriculture by 2030. Currently, 828 million people are hungry, with 349 million facing severe hunger, primarily due to conflict, climate change, poverty, and food waste. Conflict is a major barrier to achieving zero hunger, with nearly 60% of the hungriest individuals living in conflict zones, perpetuating cycles of violence and food insecurity. Climate change exacerbates hunger through extreme weather events that disrupt food access and economies. Additionally, poverty and inequality are root causes of global hunger, with declines in bee populations threatening agricultural productivity. Despite producing enough food globally, about 40% is wasted in high-income countries, while low-income countries experience significant loss during growth and storage. Malnutrition affects nearly 3 billion people in various forms, including undernutrition and obesity. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified food insecurity, reversing years of progress and pushing millions into undernourishment. The economic impacts of the pandemic have increased global poverty for the first time since 1990, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated action across sectors to achieve zero hunger and improve global food systems.