Chronic Pain Psychology can have a profound impact on every aspect of your life. It can interfere with your ability to work, enjoy leisure activities, and maintain close personal relationships. Chronic pain also can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.
There are many different approaches to managing chronic pain. Some people find relief with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Others find that physical therapy, acupuncture, or massage help reduce their pain.
For some people, psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be helpful in managing chronic pain. CBT is a type of therapy that helps you identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that contribute to your pain.
If you’re living with chronic pain, it’s challenge and change them.
CBT for chronic pain typically includes three components:
- Education about chronic pain
- Identification of negative thoughts and behaviors related to pain
- Skills training to help you manage your pain
The first step in CBT is education about chronic pain. This may include learning about the difference between acute and chronic pain, how chronic pain can affect mood and thinking, and how to cope with pain flare-ups.
The second step is to identify negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to your pain. This may involve keeping a diary of your pain symptoms and associated thoughts and emotions. Once you are aware of these patterns, you can begin to challenge and change them.
The third step is to learn skills to help you manage your pain. This may include relaxation techniques, time management strategies, and pain coping skills.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that helps you identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviors that contribute to your pain.
Conclusion
If you’re living with chronic pain, CBT may be a helpful treatment option for you. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional about whether CBT is right for you. Resolve Pain is an excellent resource for finding a CBT therapist in your area.
CBT is a structured form of therapy that uses specific techniques to help you change your thoughts and behaviors.
If you’re living with chronic pain, CBT may be a helpful Chronic Pain Psychology option for you. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional about whether CBT is right for you. Resolve Pain is an excellent resource for finding a CBT therapist in your area.
