Untangling Chronic Pain: How Mental Health Shapes Recovery
We know through research that the body holds stress and can increase pain. I'm focusing on finding out exactly what's happening in their mind and the intrusive thoughts, the negative self-talk, stress, and finding what therapy they are comfortable with so we can get started on moving that reactivity level down.
Chronic pain is a beast, isn’t it? For many, it’s not just a physical struggle but a mental one too. In this episode of 'All Things Substance', Betsy Byler, a seasoned therapist and substance abuse counselor, tackles the intricate dance between chronic pain and mental health. Betsy dives into how mental health significantly influences recovery and why it's crucial to address both the mind and body in treatment.
She highlights the challenges of using opiates for pain management and how this has fed into the opioid crisis we face today. But it’s not all doom and gloom. Betsy advocates for a multifaceted approach that combines medication-assisted treatment with therapy, emphasizing methods like CBT to help reframe negative thoughts and manage stress. She also touches on alternative treatments like marijuana for pain relief and how therapists can guide patients to shift their mindset towards recovery.
This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice and holistic strategies, making it a must-listen for anyone dealing with chronic pain or supporting someone who is. Whether you’re a therapist looking to broaden your toolkit or someone grappling with chronic pain, Betsy’s insights offer a beacon of hope and practical solutions.