Chronic pain is more than just a physical condition – it is an emotional and psychological struggle that often goes unnoticed. The relentless ache of persistent pain is much more than just a discomfort, but rather a daily battle that takes a toll on mental health.
One of the most common but overlooked consequences of chronic pain is depression. The two conditions feed into each other, where pain worsens mood and low mood amplifies pain. Here, we will explore the complex relationship between chronic pain and depression, and discover how mindfulness can help those with chronic pain adjust to a new lifestyle.
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is a type of persistent pain that lasts for 12 weeks or longer, even after the initial injury or underlying cause has healed. It can be continuous or intermittent and may occur in different parts of the body. Unlike acute pain, which is a temporary response to an injury, chronic pain can persist for months or even years, and may not have a clear cause.
Common causes of chronic pain can include injuries, nerve damage, inflammation, or even psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, and depression. Chronic pain can manifest itself through symptoms such as persistent pain, stiffness or soreness, fatigue, and changes in your mood.
Adjusting to a New Life With Chronic Pain
Chronic pain and depression may be two separate conditions, but they are actually strongly linked and often create a vicious cycle. Chronic pain can lead to depression, and depression can worsen pain.
Chronic pain is immeasurably complex. It is a condition that is intertwined with grief, disbelief in the medical industry, chronic fatigue, financial stress, loss of who one was, and often loss of community. The internalized doubt can be crippling for so many as oftentimes, there is nothing that people can see and there is no way to make it better.
For those living with chronic pain, the most difficult part is having to come to terms with a reality that may look very different from the life they once knew. It is a very emotional journey, one that requires a lot of adjustments and finding ways to move forward despite limitations. Simple tasks that once felt effortless may now require careful planning.
Despite this, the goal of adjusting to a new life with chronic pain does not mean giving up, it just means learning to live within new boundaries while still finding joy and purpose. There may be grief for one’s old self, but there is also resilience, acceptance, and making peace with who you are now.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Chronic Pain and Depression
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness offer a compassionate approach to living with chronic pain and depression. These methods encourage those to accept pain as part of their new reality, while still committing to actions that bring meaning and fulfillment. Instead of fighting against pain, it teaches those to acknowledge it without letting it control their lives.
Mindfulness plays a key role in this process, helping people stay present rather than getting lost in worry about the future or grief over what has been lost. It is not about pretending that the pain does not exist, but rather about learning to coexist with it.
Mental Health Counselling at Healing Spaces
We believe you when you tell us your pain is unbearable. We believe you when you tell us your fatigue level is at the point of complete exhaustion. We believe you when you tell us that simple, daily activities now require lots of time, energy, and effort.
If you are experiencing symptoms of chronic pain and/or depression, it is important to seek help. Our team at Healing Spaces can help you work through your pain and the anxieties that may come with adjusting to a new life. Our therapy services are offered in person in Vancouver, North Vancouver or Kamloops and online.
We’re here to support you on your journey toward the life you deserve. Take the first step—reach out and book an appointment today.
