Pain Management And Depression
Don’t Let Your Pain Get You Down
By Jarrett Kruse
Depression frequently accompanies chronic back pain, and most pain management programs and pain management specialists take that fact into account, Chronic pain is among the leading causes of depression, especially in cases of back pain, which can be debilitating. When suffering from chronic back pain, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of depression so you can get appropriate help. if your first response to pain is medication, that may also be your first temptation in dealing with depression. but it’s important to strike a balance between pain management and drug dependence.
Chronic pain is one of the leading causes of depression and depression in turn can lead to more back pain. Pain management specialists are aware of this relationship and can offer counseling in dealing with depression. Whether or not you are seeing a pain management specialist, you need to be able to recognize the symptoms of depression so you can seek proper care through therapy, medication, or a natural practice such as yoga or meditation. Clinical depression goes beyond just feeling sown for a few days. Common symtopms are:
- A sad, blue or depressed mood that lasts for days on end without relief. It may produce crying spells, irritability or rage
- Loss of appetite or interest in food, or significant weight loss or increased appetite or weight gain
- Insomnia or an excess of sleep
- Feeling fatigue without relief
- The inability to enjoy things or find pleasure in usually pleasant activities
- Decreased sex drive
- Feeling of worthlessness and/or guilt. Being overwhelmed by a feeling of hopelessness or despair
- Problems with concentration or memory
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
If you experience these symptoms, you should seek counseling and treatment for depression. Because depression so often accompanies chronic pain, many pain specialists and doctors are well-versed in treatment of depression and can recommend appropriate treatment.
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