Cognitive Behavioral Health Workbook for Chronic Pain

WHAT IS CHRONIC PAIN? Most people are all too familiar with the experience of pain, and most of us experience some level of pain or discomfort at regular intervals and for different reasons. Chronic pain is distinctly different to acute and temporary pain, however. Chronic pain is considered a condition and is generally diagnosed when pain has been present for 3 months or more. Chronic pain can occur as a result of an accident, illness, or disability; however can also be due to unknown and undiagnosed causes.

THE PSYCHOLOGICAL AFFECT Some common psychological effects of chronic pain include: Worry and fear of experiencing a pain episode. Pain catastrophizing, where the negative effects of pain are magnified, and a feeling of hopelessness appears. Irritability and anger. Disrupted sleep patterns. Increased experience of stress, which in turn can impact pain control. Low mood and motivation to engage in otherwise enjoyed activities.

CBT FOR CHRONIC PAIN Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that focuses on the interaction between our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and building skills to overcome negative or unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. CBT can be a highly successful therapy modality for chronic pain in addition to other conditions. CBT can assist with changing the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to pain, while introducing coping strategies, and put the discomfort in a different context.

This workbook was created to teach you tools to assist with the symptoms of chronic pain. IT IS NOT A TREATMENT ALONE.