Metro Atlanta Chronic Pain Treatment

Chronic pain can come from many sources, including old injuries, physical conditions, certain diseases, and mental health conditions. Regardless of the cause of your chronic pain, however, it’s essential to understand that chronic pain and mental health are closely linked. In fact, Harvard Medical School reports that people with chronic pain have three times the risk of developing psychiatric symptoms—usually anxiety and depression. What’s more, those with depression have three times the risk of developing chronic pain.

If you are suffering from chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and other psychiatric symptoms may be a cause or a side effect. At CNSL, we help patients develop the healthy habits and skills needed to cope with chronic pain and the mental challenges that often accompany it.

Mental Health Therapy for Chronic Pain 

There are multiple techniques for managing chronic pain, including physical exercises, treatment of underlying diseases and conditions, lifestyle changes, massage, acupuncture, medication, and more. One highly effective treatment option is cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT.

When working with a psychiatrist, you will be asked about both your physical and mental health. You may explore topics such as the area of your pain, when you experience it, where it originates in your body, what it feels like, and what factors seem to impact it. You will also likely engage in conversation about worries or stress you experience, including any anxieties associated with your pain. Once your therapist has an understanding of your chronic pain and any mental health issues you may be experiencing, they can design a treatment plan based on your goals and needs.

Other Ways a Therapist Can Help

In addition to designing a treatment plan to help you understand the root cause of your chronic pain or how your chronic pain is impacting your mental health, a therapist can also help you to develop coping skills that may help with keeping your stress levels in check and may even help to reduce pain. Potential techniques for managing stress include:

• Deep breathing
• Meditation
• Perspective changing

A therapist can also recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercising, eating healthy, finding healthy distractions, making social connections, and making sure you’re properly managing any prescription medications you’re taking. 

Is Working with a Therapist a Good Idea?

When you are dealing with chronic pain and associated mental health concerns, working with a therapist can provide you with the support and guidance you need to start managing your emotions in a more productive and effective way. Regardless of the direct cause of your pain, a therapist will be able to help you manage your psychological state and may also help you to improve your physical state, too.

Call CNSL Today 

At CNSL, our therapists are here to provide psychiatric therapy as well as medication management services to patients throughout Georgia who are coping with chronic pain. For caring, personalized support at a time when you need it most, call our mental health professionals directly today. We are here to support you.