What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is not just a physical sensation; it's a complex experience that involves psychological, emotional, and social factors. As psychologists, we play a crucial role in understanding and addressing the psychological aspects of chronic pain. Unlike acute pain, which serves as a warning sign of injury or illness and usually resolves with treatment, chronic pain can linger for months or even years. It can arise from various sources, including injury, illness, or underlying health conditions, but it often becomes a condition in its own right, separate from its initial cause.
The Psychological Impact of Chronic Pain:
Living with chronic pain takes a toll on every aspect of a person's life. Beyond the physical discomfort, individuals with chronic pain may experience profound psychological distress. Persistent pain can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, sadness, and hopelessness. It can disrupt sleep, impair concentration, and diminish overall quality of life. Additionally, the constant struggle with pain can strain relationships and social engagements.
Psychological Interventions for Chronic Pain:
Psychological interventions are an essential component of comprehensive pain management. These interventions aim to address the psychological factors that contribute to the experience of chronic pain and teach individuals coping strategies to better manage their symptoms. Some common psychological interventions for chronic pain include:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs about pain, develop effective coping strategies, and gradually reintroduce activities they have been avoiding.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): MBSR teaches individuals to cultivate mindfulness, allowing them to observe their pain without judgment and develop greater acceptance and resilience in the face of discomfort.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT helps individuals clarify their values and take committed action towards living a fulfilling life, even in the presence of pain.
Biofeedback and Relaxation Techniques: These techniques teach individuals to regulate their physiological responses to pain, promoting relaxation and reducing
Why Choose Horizon Counselling Service:
At Horizon Counselling Service we are trained in helping you navigate chronic pain symptoms. Dr. Pott specializes in the treatment and management of chronic pain, and is currently taking an advanced certification in pain management through the University of Alberta. The team working at Horizon Counselling Service have additional training in pain management and are directly supervised by Dr. Pott.
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