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01-09-2016 | Original Paper

Learning from Physical Pain to Help with the Management of Emotional Pain

Authors: Alison Athey, James Overholser

Published in: Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy | Issue 3/2016

Abstract

There may be important similarities between chronic emotional pain and chronic physical pain. Both forms of chronic pain may promote negative beliefs about the self and the future. Chronic emotional pain and chronic physical pain both serve to disrupt patients’ focus from their actions and goals. Techniques used for the treatment of physical pain may be translated into the treatment of emotional pain. Four core strategies are reviewed including: (1) reducing catastrophic interpretations, (2) increasing tolerance by promoting acceptance, (3) cultivating positive expectations, and (4) remaining flexible in movements and attitudes. Patients can learn to tolerate limitations while pursuing their goals. Clinicians can help patients to reduce emotional pain by making a series of small changes in their thoughts and behavior.

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Title: Learning from Physical Pain to Help with the Management of Emotional Pain
Authors: Alison Athey
James Overholser
Publication date: 01-09-2016
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy / Issue 3/2016
Print ISSN: 0022-0116
Electronic ISSN: 1573-3564
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10879-016-9330-y

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Learning from Physical Pain to Help with the Management of Emotional Pain

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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