Chronic pain is experiencing prolonged periods of physical distress that may include more than just feeling pain or discomfort. The pain may last for months with some being sensitive to pain more than others. The level of pain is different from pain experienced from an injury. At times it is intolerable when accompanied by one or more of the following: Mood disorders such as depression or anxiety, muscle pain, and discomfort, limited physical or mental performance, lack of energy, high-stress levels.
Dramatic Mood Changes
It’s common to experience a change in mood occasionally or to go through a short period of feeling elated or blue. But if your behavior is unpredictable for a number of days or longer, it may be a sign of something more serious. Patterns of these types of mood shifts may be symptoms of a more serious health condition. You should schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your feelings. They can work with you to determine why you feel this way and what you can do to resolve it. Agencies like Behavioral health services Scranton PA offers professional therapy or medications to relieve these life-altering shifts in mood. Simple lifestyle changes may also help, too.
Depression varies from person to person, but there are some common signs and symptoms. It’s important to remember that these symptoms can be part of life’s normal lows. But the more symptoms you have, the stronger they are, and the longer they’ve lasted—the more likely it is that you’re dealing with depression. Depression is a major risk factor for suicide. The deep despair and hopelessness that goes along with depression can make suicide feel like the only way to escape the pain.
Substance abuse and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are closely linked, and while some substance abuse can cause prolonged psychotic reactions, one does not directly cause the other. However: Alcohol and drugs are often used to self-medicate the symptoms of mental health problems. Alcohol and drug abuse can increase the underlying risk for mental disorders. Alcohol and drug abuse can make symptoms of a mental health problem worse.