Psychological Interventions in Pain Management

Pain is among the most common somatic complaints. Fortunately, in only a minority of people is pain long lasting and severe, such that it interferes with daily life activities. Those with chronic, disabling pain present to healthcare providers repeatedly. Often they experience anxiety and depression, irritation, frustration and helplessness, and they suffer from insomnia and excessive medication use. It results from complex interplay of biological, psychological & sociocultural factors. There are gamut of medical and psychosocial factors which cause pain. Pain is basically a sensory, emotional and subjective experience. High psychological arousal and cognitive set are significant factors which maintain or exacerbate the pain. In this paper, psychological strategies of pain management are being discussed. The major focus being cognitive behavioral interventions. The paper focuses on psychological factors related to pain and the role of professional psychologists in dealing with cases of chronic or other pain related disorders. The paper highlights the importance of incorporating biopsychosocial model in pain management for speedy recovery and better quality of life of pain patient.