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Psychology and Chronic Pain

Psychology and Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can affect much more than the part of the body that hurts — it can influence sleep, activity levels, mood, relationships and confidence.

At the same time, stress, anxiety, poor sleep and emotional distress can affect how people experience and respond to pain. Acknowledging psychological influences does not mean pain is imagined — contemporary approaches to chronic pain recognise that pain is complex and can be influenced by biological, psychological and social factors.

For some people, psychological support becomes one component of a broader multidisciplinary approach that may also involve medical practitioners, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals. The goal may not always be eliminating every uncomfortable sensation — psychological therapy can also focus on improving functioning, reducing distress and helping people return to meaningful activities.

Learn more about psychological support for chronic pain →

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