Cognitive-behavioural therapy for chronic disease focuses on addressing the connection between our thoughts, emotions (feelings), behaviours, and physical sensations. By identifying and addressing thoughts, emotions, and behavioural factors that might trigger, maintain, or worsen physical symptoms, clients can start to feel more capable in their management of their health conditions and may even see a decrease in the intensity or frequency of their symptoms.
In the treatment of chronic pain, behavioural strategies focused on pacing and planning activities throughout the day can help to reduce the likelihood of pain “flare-ups”, while cognitive strategies can address thinking patterns that might maintain problematic ways of coping. Psychological treatment of chronic medical conditions often involves consultation with other healthcare providers (medical doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists) to help support client care in the most informed way possible.
It is normal for individuals who are faced with new or chronic medical conditions to experience periods of emotional distress, including anxiety and low mood. In some cases, however, emotional symptoms become strong enough that they negatively impact people’s ability to participate in their medical treatment, their work, and/or their interactions with friends and loved ones.
