The Link Between Chronic Pain and Suicide: Understanding and Prevention

 



Chronic pain not only leads to physical suffering but can also have severe psychological and emotional consequences. One of the most concerning correlations is the connection between chronic pain and suicide. Chronic pain patients are at least twice as likely to commit suicide as the general population. This article aims to shed light on this link, its underlying causes, and provide valuable prevention strategies.

Understanding the Link


Chronic pain and suicide are intertwined in a complex relationship that involves both physical and psychological factors.
Reclaim Labs TinctureReclaim CBD Products Individuals living with chronic pain often experience a significant reduction in their overall quality of life. This can lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and isolation, which can contribute to the development of suicidal thoughts and attempts.


Key Factors Contributing to the Link:

  1. Psychological Impact: Chronic pain can lead to depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness which increase the risk of suicide.
  2. Loss of Functionality: Many individuals with chronic pain find it challenging to engage in daily activities, work, or hobbies they once enjoyed. This loss of functionality can lead to feelings of inadequacy and a sense of purposelessness.
  3. Social Isolation: Chronic pain often limits an individual's ability to socialize, leading to isolation and feelings of loneliness. Lack of social support can contribute significantly to the risk of suicide.
  4. Inadequate Pain Management: Poorly managed pain can exacerbate all the above factors. In some cases, individuals may turn to substances or risky behaviors in an attempt to alleviate their suffering, further compounding the risk.
  5. Stigma and Misunderstanding: People with chronic pain often face skepticism or disbelief from others, including family, friends, coworkers and healthcare providers. This can lead to a sense of invalidation and make it even more challenging to seek help.

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The Connection Between Opioids and Suicide Risk


“The relationship between opioid prescribing and suicide risk is a complex one. This is particularly the case when people have their opioids tapered,” says Mark Olfson, MD, MPH, professor of epidemiology at Columbia School of Public Health. People can become desperate if their pain is not well controlled. Yet opioids also pose a greater risk of overdose than any other drug class and approximately 40 percent of overdose suicide deaths in the U.S. involve opioids. At a population level, the national decline in opioid prescribing over the last several years appears to have
 reduced the number of people who died of suicide.”

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“If opioid prescribing per capita had held constant from 2009 to 2017, there would have been an estimated 10.5 percent more suicide deaths involving opioids in 2017,” noted Olfson. In the U.S., geographic regions with the greatest declines in people filling opioid prescriptions also tended to have the greatest declines in total suicide deaths. 

People who abuse opioids are 14 times more likely to die by suicide compared to the general population, a statistic that shows the very strong link between mental distress, chronic pain, opioids and suicide.



Prevention Strategies

  1. Seek Professional Help: If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic pain and experiencing thoughts of suicide, it is crucial to seek help from a healthcare professional. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation, recommend appropriate treatments, and connect individuals with mental health resources.
  2. Comprehensive Pain Management: Effective pain management is essential in reducing the risk of suicide in individuals with chronic pain. Often pain patients lose hope when the limited options offered by conventional medicine don’t help. There are many little-known alternative pain treatments that can provide safe and effective pain relief. Search the Alternative Pain Treatment Directory for helpful information, products and alternative healthcare providers.
  3. Address Mental Health Concerns: It is vital to address any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
  4. Build a Support System: Establishing a strong support network is crucial. Friends, family, and support groups can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, which can significantly improve an individual's outlook and resilience.
  5. Education and Awareness: Raising awareness about the link between chronic pain and suicide is essential in reducing stigma and fostering understanding. Education can help individuals recognize the signs of distress in themselves or others and encourage seeking help.


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Resources for Prevention

  1. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (USA): 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) - Provides free, confidential support 24/7.
  2. Crisis Text Line (USA): Text "HOME" to 741741 - A free, confidential texting service for individuals in crisis.
  3. International Suicide Hotlines: For a comprehensive list of suicide hotlines around the world, visit https://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html.
  4. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Provides resources, support, and education for individuals and families dealing with mental health conditions. Website: https://www.nami.org/.

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Conclusion

The link between chronic pain and suicide is a serious concern that requires attention and intervention. By understanding the complex factors contributing to this connection and implementing prevention strategies and effective pain relief, we lessen the suffering that drives pain patients to want to end their lives.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are resources available to assist individuals in their journey towards improved mental and physical well-being.


Related Articles:

The Benefits of Chronic Pain Support Groups

How to Recover from Chronic Pain

Impact of Small “t” Trauma on Chronic Pain and Illness
Home Treatment for Chronic Pain Relief

Six Ways to Use Your Brain to Heal Your Pain

Pain Reprocessing Therapy


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