Huntington's Disease Insights

A recent study led by Schriger et al. (2025) has explored the potential benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for individuals living with Huntington’s disease (HD) and their caregivers. ACT is a psychological therapy that helps individuals build resilience by accepting difficult thoughts and emotions while focusing on actions that align with their values. The study included a case report of a 52-year-old man with HD who participated in a 6-session ACT intervention with his caregiver. After the therapy, the patient experienced a meaningful reduction in depression and improvements in his overall quality of life, particularly in physical functioning, mood, and worries.

These findings suggest that ACT could be a valuable tool for managing the emotional and psychological challenges of HD. Unlike traditional therapy approaches that focus on changing thoughts, ACT helps individuals develop flexibility in how they respond to distressing experiences, which may be especially beneficial given the progressive nature of HD. While more research is needed, this study highlights ACT as a promising option for improving well-being in both HD patients and their caregivers. If you or a loved one is living with HD, discussing ACT-based interventions with a healthcare provider may provide additional support for navigating the challenges of the condition.