Pain and Substance Use: Insights from Dezarie Moskal
Alleviation of pain, whether emotional or physical, is among the most common reasons for substance use. Despite this, very little experimental work has been done to delineate a causal effect of pain.
Ever wondered why pain often leads people down the path of substance use? In this eye-opening episode of 'The Addiction Psychologist', Dezarie Moskal, a doctoral candidate at Syracuse University, dives deep into her research on the intricate link between pain and substance use. She joins hosts Dr. Noah Emery and Sam Acuff to unpack her experimental work and discuss a recent meta-analysis on endocannabinoids' role in pain relief.
Pain, whether emotional or physical, is a common trigger for substance use, yet little research has explored this causal relationship. Moskal's studies aim to bridge this gap, revealing that pain frequently precedes alcohol use and that effective pain management can significantly reduce alcohol consumption. But it’s not just about the physical sensation. Moskal explains how emotional factors like anxiety and catastrophizing can amplify pain's negative effects.
She advocates for alternative treatments, including psychotherapy and web-based interventions, to manage pain within substance use disorder treatment. The episode also offers practical advice for budding addiction psychologists. Moskal shares her own experiences of overcoming presentation nerves and emphasizes the value of mentorship and collaboration. She encourages trainees to stay engaged with the latest research by attending conferences and building a supportive community.
This episode is a treasure trove of insights into how understanding and managing pain can play a crucial role in addiction recovery. Whether you're a professional in the field or someone affected by addiction, Moskal's findings provide valuable perspectives on tackling this complex issue.