The Psychological Effects of Chronic Pain

Chronic pain does more than just cause discomfort or painful sensations; it can also affect a person psychologically. Recent studies indicate that patients who suffer from long-term pain feel like they are not themselves, and that they’ve somehow lost their “sense of self”. In other words, they have become detached from their former selves because the pain makes it difficult to live what they consider to be their normal life. When there are no answers or relief to their pain, they can feel lost and hopeless, and this in turn can lead to detachment and depression.

It is imperative that chronic pain patients find a physician who understands long-term pain and how to deal with it from a positive standpoint. The relationship you have with your doctor is extremely important, and trust is the key factor. A doctor who understands all the effects of chronic pain will be able to approach the problem with a focus on management, and this can help the patient return to a sense of normalcy.

At Advanced Pain Management, we specialize in issues of chronic pain. Our staff is trained to handle all aspects of long-term pain, and we work together with our patients to find the best solutions to each specific situation. Call us today to make an appointment and begin your road back to being yourself again.

Resources:
Chronic Pain Patients Often Lose ‘Sense of Self’ (Video)
Living with Chronic Pain Challenges Sense of Self

This blog is written for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for actual medical treatment. Please contact the APM Augusta office to schedule an appointment if you are in need of medical care.