Depression and Pain

Depression is often a serious side effect of chronic pain. It seems to follow us and can be difficult to shake. But if you work at it and follow through with medication and therapy, you can get better and regain the hope and happiness that you once had in your life, even with chronic pain.

Below are some symptoms of depression:

Isolating yourself from others
Unable to make decisions
Changes in sleep patterns (sleep too much or cannot sleep)
Weeping (uncontrollable crying with little to no provocation)
Feelings of sadness
Feeling hopeless
Thoughts of death and dieing

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please discuss it with your doctor and reach out to someone in your family or support system. If you do not have a family member or friend to talk to right now, and you are having thoughts of suicide, please call immediately for help.

In the USA you can call: 1-800-SUICIDE, or
Visit the Hope Line web page to find a crisis center in your area.

Interaction is Key

Interacting with others is key to staying above the depression black hole. If you have a local church, that can be a great way to begin interacting with others who are caring. Family and friends can also help, as long as they are supportive. You may need to tell them just what you are feeling. Letting others know that you are depressed is very important. Often times others are too busy to realize just how deep our depression has become.

Many in our support group have gone through depression and understand the connection between pain and the dark thoughts that sometimes accompany it. Why not join us at our forum at MSN Groups? For more information, click here.

To join our support group, place your eMail address in the space provided below. You will receive your membership information in your email. Be sure to set your eMail options to what best suits you. Your options are:

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More Pages on Pain:

Coping | Pain and Depression | Pain Causes

PLEASE NOTE! Any information you read on the Internet, including our web site, message boards, news letters, and chat room, should not replace the advice of your health care providers. Additionally, our group is not comprised of Health Care Professionals and do not provide health care advice. You should never make changes to your diet, treatment plan, or exercise regimen without first consulting your physician.

Last Updated: November 27, 2003