The Risk Factors For Suicidal Ideation - 2194 Words

I will discuss how pain affects one s life and how the way one copes affect his or her pain. Further, I will explore the risk factors for suicidal ideation, the impact of positive and negative emotions on pain perception, sleep disruption in relation to pain, and the importance of one expressing his or her pain as separate from his or her identity. It was concluded that positive emotions, support from family and friends, expressing one s internal world, and maintaining a social scene are important for those suffering from chronic pain. Factors that Contribute to Chronic Pain and Methods of Coping and Improving Quality of Life A large population of individuals experience chronic pain and it often affects every aspect of their existence.†¦show more content†¦Indications of Suicidality and Preventative Measures Because of the lasting nature of chronic pain, one who is suffering from it may feel depressed and even suicidal. Research suggests that there is an increased risk of suicidal ideation among individuals with chronic pain (Wilson, Kowal, Henderson, McWilliams, Pe loquin 2013, para. 1). Moreover, it is hypothesized that for an individual the risk is higher if he or she feels isolated or that he or she is a burden to others (Wilson et al. 2013, para. 2). Such predictions appear to be plausible as lasting pain has a tendency to impede greatly on one s social life. Further, it is important to note that studies have also indicated that pain severity and suicidal ideation do not always correlate (Wilson et al. 2013, para. 20). In other words, someone with severe pain may not experience suicidal ideation, but someone with mild pain may experience suicidal ideation. This finding is important as one may assume that a higher level of pain equals a higher likelihood of suicidal thoughts and actions, but this may not always be the case. Thus, it is important that health professionals as well as friends and family members caring for those suffering from chronic pain acknowledge their suffering even if their pain is not categorized as severe. Other preventative measures to suicide