The Link Between Pain & Depression

Unfortunately, chronic pain can lead to depression. But, it’s important to understand the link between the two of them, in order to solve it. There are a wide variety of solutions if you’re feeling down and depressed from your experienced chronic pain. For example, some patients may benefit from getting exercise. Others, however, may benefit from reading a good book. However, in the most severe cases of depression, the interventions won’t be as simple.  

How Depression Can Cause Pain

It’s common for depression to physically affect parts of the body, such as causing back and neck pain resulting in full body soreness or migraines. It’s difficult to evaluate these symptoms because, for some, these are the only signs of depression. Most people experience behavioral symptoms of depression as well, since people will often avoid taking care of their bodies, like avoiding exercise and healthy eating. Ignoring your health needs can make you more susceptible to pain and injury, and patients experiencing severe depressive disorders will find it difficult to notice such changes. 

How Pain Can Cause Depression

People living their day-to-day lives find it especially difficult to deal with their chronic pain as it can be a serious mental stressor. Chronic pain can make sleeping, moving around, or focusing exceptionally difficult. Pain that is so intense, can even get in the way of work life, as it can disable a person, lead to low self-esteem, or even cause issues with personal finances. Not only does chronic pain cause depression, though. Those that suffer from other serious conditions like heart disease or diabetes are also under risk. 

How Do You Address Your Symptoms?

Your situation will decide whether you want to address pain and depression as separate entities or as one problem. Several treatments can help with both at the same time, but it’s best to speak to a medical professional to give you guidance regarding what works best for you. These treatments include, but aren’t limited to:

• Talk Therapy (Psychotherapy): A type of therapy that’s psychologically focused, but can help patients build behaviors that prevent feelings of pain.
• Pain Rehabilitation Programs: These programs mix psychiatric and medical aspects. The reassurance and support of others who experience similar symptoms can be incredibly beneficial and reduce feelings of loneliness.
• Stress-Reduction Techniques: It’s extremely common for chronic pain symptoms to arise from an overabundance of stress and muscle tension. These techniques can help relieve tension and increase brain activity and function, which can reduce depression.

If you believe you are experiencing both pain and depression, we recommend scheduling an appointment with one of our expert pain providers at Pain Specialty Group here. The right treatment and a specialized plan of care can help you get your life back.

Author

Aidan Fisher, Maureen Cassidy Pain Specialty Group