Breaking the Barriers: How Your Health Beliefs Are Hurting You

Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life, making it difficult to perform even simple tasks. However, managing chronic pain is not an easy task, and it can be hindered by a patient's health beliefs.

Health beliefs are the ideas and attitudes that a person has about their health and the healthcare system. These beliefs can be influenced by cultural, religious, and societal factors. In some cases, they can be beneficial, but in others, they can hinder a patient's management of chronic pain.

One of the health beliefs that can hinder the management of chronic pain is the idea that pain is a natural part of aging. Many people believe that as they get older, they will experience more pain and discomfort. This belief can make them more likely to accept chronic pain as a normal part of their life and not seek treatment for it. As a result, they may not receive the necessary medical intervention to manage their pain.

Another health belief that can hinder the management of chronic pain is the idea that pain is a sign of weakness. Some people believe that if they admit to being in pain, it means they are not strong enough to handle it. This belief can lead them to avoid seeking treatment for their pain, and instead, try to tough it out on their own. This can lead to further physical and psychological distress, making it even more difficult to manage their pain.

The idea that medication is always the best option for managing chronic pain is another health belief that can be detrimental. While medication can be effective in managing pain, it is not always the best option. In some cases, it can cause unwanted side effects or lead to dependency. Patients who believe that medication is the only option for managing their pain may be reluctant to try other treatments, such as physical therapy or acupuncture, that may be more effective for them. Particularly in the North-East of the UK where we're based at, the rates of opioid overuse due to chronic pain is some of the highest in the country; contrary to government clinical guidance stating almost all pain killers (except in very specific circumstances) should be stopped as they have little to no benefit but with all the side-effects.

Additionally, the belief that pain is purely a physical issue can also hinder the management of chronic pain. While chronic pain can have a physical component, it can also have a psychological component. For example, depression and anxiety can make pain worse or more difficult to manage. Patients who do not recognize this psychological aspect of chronic pain may not seek the appropriate treatment to manage their pain effectively.

The idea that pain can be cured completely is another health belief that can hinder the management of chronic pain. While some chronic pain conditions can be managed effectively, they cannot always be cured completely. Patients who believe that their pain can be cured may become frustrated and discouraged when they do not see the results they expected. This can lead to a cycle of despair and hopelessness, making it even more difficult to manage their pain effectively.

Finally, the belief that healthcare providers have all the answers can also be a hindrance. While healthcare providers are trained professionals, they are not infallible. Patients who put all their trust in their healthcare provider and do not advocate for themselves may not receive the best care for their pain. It is important for patients to be informed and educated about their condition and treatment options, so they can make informed decisions about their healthcare.

In conclusion, health beliefs can have a significant impact on a patient's management of chronic pain. Patients who hold beliefs that pain is a natural part of aging, a sign of weakness, that medication is always the best option, that pain is purely a physical issue, that pain can be cured completely, or that healthcare providers have all the answers may be hindering their ability to manage their pain effectively. It is important for patients to recognize their health beliefs and work with their healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan that addresses their pain in a comprehensive and holistic manner. With the right approach, chronic pain can be managed effectively, improving a patient's quality of life and overall well-being.