As May—which is National Mental Health Month—comes to a close, it’s important to think about mental health and the ways chronic pain can affect it. The board-certified physicians at iSpine Pain Physicians help patients in the Twin Cities live their best lives with chronic pain management.

Those who have chronic pain often suffer from depression as well. Here are some tips for maintaining mental health when you experience chronic pain:

• Start Exercising: In addition to building muscle and strength, exercise has been shown to boost endorphins, which can reduce pain while improving your mood.
• Learn to Meditate: Practicing techniques like controlled breathing and mental focus can have a dual benefit, helping your mind feel at ease while relaxing tense muscles in your body.
• Reduce Substance Intake: If you frequently smoke or drink alcoholic beverages, it can have a negative effect on your circulation, sleeping patterns and other bodily functions, exacerbating any preexisting chronic pain.
• Talk About It: Meeting with a psychotherapist or joining a support group will enable you to share your experience and learn healthy coping skills in a supportive environment.
• Seek Medical Care: It’s important to get professional help when you experience pain and depression. A chronic pain management clinic like iSpine Pain Physicians can give you the care and attention you need.

Serving Chaska, Crystal, Delano, and Maple Grove, MN, the back pain specialists at iSpine Pain Physicians help patients achieve chronic pain management. Visit the clinic online or give them a call at (763) 201-8191 to set up an appointment.