CBT for chronic lupus pain?

[ShannonB]

I’m having the worst flare I’ve ever had and it’s been uncontrolled for nearly three years. It’s getting worse not better and I have extreme joint pain at night. It’s stopping me from doing lots of normal activities and making most of what I do painful. I’m trying to get help through rheumatology, and have been referred to a neurologist too, but I need to find something to provide relief.

Has anyone tried cognitive behavioural therapy?

[GiaM]

Hi, I have had CBT but not for treatment of pain (more for anxiety to do with symptoms) so my reply might not be that useful.

I cant say it transformed my life, but after my 6 sessions i did notice my attitude was more positive. There are lots of little exercises to do at home to focus your attention away from negative thoughts about the situation. I suppose this could offer a little relief from pain etc by refocusing your mind. It would take alot of work on your part to make that happen though.

I think the biggest thing I got out of my sessions was talking, to someone with no knowledge of me and less judgement of my situation.

I recently had person centred therapy (which I had to pay for ) and honestly just talking for an hour I came out and felt like I could breathe, it was a relief to say things out loud instead of being inside my head and I definitely felt more positive about coping with being unwell and some hope that things might get better.

I know this may not always be possible when you feel ill but for my degree & masters I researched the impact of nature connection on physical and mental health issues, even just sitting in a garden or park (greenspace) can improve your mental wellbeing so that you're better able to cope with physical health issues (i know this is easier said than done, even i struggle to practice what I preach)

I hope you manage to access some talking therapies and get some support. Sending lots of positive vibes your way x

[ShannonB in reply to GiaM]

Thank you for taking the time to reply and sharing your thoughts. This is really helpful. Sending you positive vibes back.

[GiaM in reply to ShannonB]

Hi, ShannonB hope you are well, I am currently doing some research regarding health psychology and just came across a paper discussing CBT being used for patients with chronic pain and rememebered your post. I cant post a link as you would need a login so I thought id post a few bits. Many studies have been conducted into this with much success, outcomes show that CBT can be effective in reducing reported pain intensity when compared with standard medical treatments. Relaxation techniques & biofeedback are used to allow patients to discover that they can exert some degree of control over their pain. The goal of CBT for pain is to increase expectations of success in pain management and to develop skills to cope with present & future issues.It certainly seems to have a positive impact. Anyway, i hope this is helpful and perhaps answers a bit better than my 1st reply 😀

[ShannonB in reply to GiaM]

Thank you so much for sharing this with me. That’s very helpful and good to hear and I’m very grateful you remembered my post.

[Laurajoy]

Hello, I am doing an 8 week course in mindfulness based cognitive therapy for chronic illness & pain, I have SLE. It’s a weekly group on zoom, (there are other options) I initially didn’t want to do a group class but have to say I’m enjoying as we’re all there for the for the same reason. There is quite a bit of commitment required with practice and homework, it has been a challenge at times, but I’m 4 weeks in and it’s all falling into place, but even from the beginning there were small changes, and the positive feeling from doing something for myself has made a big difference. I’m finding it really helpful. A friend recommended the IAPT service through the NHS which is self referral nhs.uk/service-search/find-...

I highly recommend, good luck 😊

[ShannonB in reply to Laurajoy]

So pleased to hear you are finding this helpful. Thanks for sharing the link!

[Roarah]

I have been EMDR therapy for PTSD and ACT( acceptance and commitment therapy, a form of CBT specifically for chronic pain sufferers) for two years post stroke. It has changed my life. I also use hypnosis for headaches now and never need Tylenol any longer. I have been very committed to doing the work needed to maintain the positive effects of my treatments. I use a light box ( non UV type) daily. I meditate for at least 15 minutes per day and sleep same hours daily (9:30 to 5:30). I never miss my daily walk and I eat “ brain” foods everyday in addition to an hour of therapy per week. I honestly feel had I gotten this treatment earlier in my life I would not have had my strokes, miscarriages and kidney issues for since therapy my antibodies and ANA are all in normal ranges. I am energetic, calmer and happier. I believe healing my mind has helped heal my body. I hope you find such results on your journey.