How psychological intervention can help when experiencing chronic pain

Chronic pain is a term often used to describe a pain experience that has persisted for more than 3 months. When we experience pain for a prolonged period of time, this can start to have detrimental effects on our mind and body.

We can start to feel quite fatigued because we are constantly trying to manage the pain, and the pain experience also takes a lot of energy out of us. Our sleep can become affected which in turn can lead to low mood, difficulty concentrating, anxiety and feelings of frustration/anger. Life stressors such as a demanding job, juggling many responsibilities, or relationship stress can all add on to an already overwhelmed system and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and depression.

Research has consistently shown that individuals who have chronic pain are more likely to also experience anxiety and depression. In addition, there is also strong evidence that chronic pain is highly correlated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), childhood adversity and unresolved grief.

Given this strong connection between the mind and body in one’s experience of chronic pain, it is often not sufficient to address or manage the condition solely from a medical or physiological perspective. A more holistic and integrated intervention is often needed, that involves the mind and body.

A psychological intervention plan would usually include using a Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) approach to address the following:

  • Developing your knowledge and understanding of how chronic pain affects your nervous system and emotional state; and vice versa

  • Learning meditation, mindfulness and relaxation exercises to incorporate into a daily practice

  • Acknowledging and processing difficult or unwanted emotions

  • Becoming more aware of how certain thoughts and beliefs might be increasing your pain experience and finding alternative perspectives

  • Decreasing avoidance behaviours that are negatively impacting quality of life

  • Addressing past trauma, childhood emotional wounds and unresolved grief/loss

  • Developing healthy routines - Improving sleep, exercising and good nutrition (these play an important role in managing pain)

  • Increasing social connectedness and participation in activities that you love

If you would like to explore further how psychological input might help you in managing your chronic pain, please do not hesitate to contact me for an appointment.