Chronic Pain and Suicide: Why a Whole-Person Approach to Care Is Urgently Needed
A growing body of research is reinforcing something clinicians have long suspected: when physical suffering becomes chronic and unbearable, it can carry the same risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviours as mental illness.
A new study underscores how chronic pain, if left poorly managed, can deeply affect mental health and may lead to an increased risk of suicide. “Physical suffering can engender a suicidal desire that is commensurate with that engendered by mental suffering,” said lead author Dr. Calati.
At Orleans Family Health Clinic, we see this intersection of physical pain and emotional suffering in real time—and we are committed to treating both.
Biopsychosocial Model: Treating the Whole Person
The researchers stress the importance of a biopsychosocial and multidimensional approach to suicide prevention—one that includes physical distress alongside psychological and social risk factors.
This is a model OFHC embraces in our approach to chronic pain care. When a patient reports high levels of physical distress, we do not stop at symptom management. We also explore:
- Mood and mental health
- Sleep and function
- Impact on relationships and self-worth
- Accessibility of care and community support
The Burden of Chronic Pain Is Real
Dr. Jill R. Schneiderhan, an integrative family physician at the University of Michigan, echoed the findings: “When significant chronic pain is poorly controlled, patients feel more hopeless.”
She and other experts point to the real-life consequences of untreated pain:
- Increased emotional distress and hopelessness
- Heightened suicide risk
- Reduced quality of life and function
Yet many non-pharmacological treatments recommended by pain guidelines—such as psychological therapies, mindfulness-based interventions, or acupuncture—remain inaccessible for many patients due to lack of funding, stigma, and limited provider availability.
What OFHC Is Doing Differently
At Orleans Family Health Clinic, we are working to close the gap for patients living with chronic pain:
- Integrated primary care and mental health services
- Pain and minor ailment management by pharmacists
- Access to family doctors and allied professionals
- Care plans that look beyond prescriptions
We believe no one should suffer in silence—whether from physical pain, emotional distress, or both. Suicide prevention starts with listening, validating, and treating the whole person.
If You or Someone You Know Is Struggling…
Please speak with a physician, nurse practitioner, or mental health clinician. If you’re in crisis, help is available 24/7 through local emergency services or distress lines.
The National Suicide Crisis Line at 988 or 1-866-996-0991, or the Ottawa Crisis Line at 613-238-3311. You may also contact the Distress Centre at dcottawa.on.ca.
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