by bp MagazineTo get symptoms of pain and depression under control, experts recommend a multifaceted approach; here’s three ideas:
#1 Identify and deal with stress triggers
Pay attention to which stress or emotional triggers affect your pain. For many the basic emotion of stress, in any situation, can be an immediate trigger for a pain flare-up. If you’re one of those, you’ll need to find ways to manage stress—either by changing the behavior that causes the stress, or by learning to deal with it, such as: mindfulness and breathing techniques, exercise and journaling.
#2 Seek an integrative solution
The best outcomes have come when patients undergo a multifaceted approach—receiving treatment from both a mental health professional and a physician. Getting simultaneous monitoring and treatment from experts in each area will offer a better chance for a full recovery. An example of a multi-disciplinary approach is receiving psychotherapy, antidepressant medication and visiting a pain rehabilitation program.
#3 Communicate your depression
A common problem has been that many patients do not speak to their physicians about their depression. Some believe that once their pain problem is resolved then the depression will go away. However, there is usually a vicious circle at play and the effects of having a chronic pain problem itself can contribute to continued or new feelings of depression. It’s important to have open communication with your physician so you can receive the appropriate care.
Sources: “Coping With Chronic Pain and Depression,” spine-health.com
via Esperanza – Hope To Cope
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