Chronic Pain & Bipolar Disorder: The Brain's Role

The Interplay of Pain and Mood

Chronic pain management is often incomplete, particularly for those living with bipolar disorder. The way individuals with bipolar disorder perceive their pain can significantly affect their recovery process. A personal account highlights the importance of addressing mental health alongside physical discomfort.

A Personal Experience with Chronic Pain

The author describes waking up to a day where even sunlight felt painful, eight months after an auto accident caused by an Uber driver running a red light. Initially skeptical of whiplash, the author now experiences unrelenting pain in the neck and right shoulder despite ongoing treatment.

The Impact on Mental Wellbeing

Despite years of managing bipolar disorder with various recovery tools, the chronic pain triggered a different response than typical depression. Instead of sadness, the author felt anger and agitation, potentially indicating a “mixed state” – a combination of manic and depressive symptoms. This led to confusion about the source of their distress.

Research Highlights the Connection

Studies demonstrate a strong link between how bipolar individuals perceive their physical health and their overall recovery. A longitudinal review found that negative views of physical wellbeing correlated with more severe mood symptoms and reduced functioning over a two-year period. This suggests that addressing attitudes towards physical health is vital in treating bipolar disorder.

Treatment Challenges and Risks

The Southern Pain Center notes that patients with bipolar disorder and chronic pain often respond poorly to treatment and may face increased risks. Opioids, commonly prescribed for pain, can worsen mood instability in bipolar patients if not taken with a mood stabilizer.

A Gap in Medical Care

Despite disclosing a bipolar disorder on intake forms, the author’s medical doctors rarely inquired about their mental health or suggested counseling to manage the emotional impact of the pain. This oversight is concerning, as the reaction to chronic pain is as important as the pain itself.

The Value of Therapy and Psychiatry

Fortunately, the author has access to a therapist and psychiatrist who provide invaluable support. Their guidance helps identify cognitive distortions and reframe challenges, preventing them from feeling overwhelming. However, the author acknowledges that even with this support, the past eight months have been difficult.

The Need for Holistic Treatment

The author questions how many people have access to similar resources or even recognize the importance of tending to their mental health alongside their physical health after an injury. They emphasize that doctors should address the emotional impact of chronic pain, asking patients how they are coping with life changes and offering support.

The author concludes that a critical aspect of chronic pain treatment is missing: a focus not just on the pain, but on the brain.