Chronic Pain Management: How To Train Your Inner Dragon

Many people see chronic pain management as strictly a medical issue...and that, it is not. Pretty much every person living with chronic pain can benefit from many alternative and complementary practices. At first you might think it's crazy to see a psychologist for treatment of chronic pain. For some folks, the idea of going to a psychologist implies some kind of mental health problem, or that the pain your feeling is all in your head. Nothing could be further from the truth!

A psychologist can help a pain patient in some very significant ways. First of all, a psychologist can help an individual how to self-manage their pain. Think of it this way--many of us would go to a doctor about being overweight, but their are many weight loss plans and health clubs that can help us to get back in shape. In a similar manner, a psychologist can help to explore which things in our lives improve or worsen pain levels and how to get those things into balance.

Secondly, a psychologist can help a pain patient to learn coping skills that are appropriate to his/her particular escalations in pain levels. Some examples: distraction techniques, meditation, and breathing exercises. In addition, a psychologist can help us to see that our pain condition is a part of our lives, but it doesn't have to be the center of our lives!

Lastly, some psychologists may offer group therapy. It's good for all of us to know that there are other people out there that are going through similar life events. We can all benefit from each other's tips and tricks, and maybe gain a few friendships as well!

Sources: Institute for Chronic Pain; Wikimedia.com

Originally posted Aug 31, 2016

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