CHRONIC PAIN
It is estimated that chronic pain impacts 1 in 5 adults.
Chronic pain is among the most common reasons that adults seek medical care. Compared to acute pain which lasts 3-6 months and gradually resolves, chronic pain can last for many months, years, or the remainder of one’s lifetime. Chronic pain requires extensive involvement with medical professionals.
Common types of chronic pain include:
- Back pain
- Headaches
- Cancer pain
- Postsurgical pain
- Joint pain
- Nerve pain
Chronic pain impacts day-to-day life and can include various symptoms (such as throbbing, soreness, stiffness, burning, and dull aches) that range in intensity (from mild to severe) and frequency (from once in a while to all the time). Among the negative effects of chronic pain are depression, suicidal ideation, substance use issues, career issues, divorce, and financial strain. In addition to pain contributing to psychological distress, the opposite is true as well.
Psychological distress can contribute to pain and make it worse.
Some of the psychological factors that negatively impact pain include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Poor coping strategies
- Maladaptive cognitions (or thoughts that are negative, inaccurate, and inflexible)
Psychological distress can negatively impact the success of medical treatment.
Counseling and therapy at Wellness Grove…
Our in-person (outpatient) counseling services are offered in Canton OH (near Akron, North Canton, and Massillon). We also offer telemental health sessions to all Ohio residents.
Wellness Grove
