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Multipronged approach to chronic pain reduces suicidal thoughts


January 8, 2014

Treating chronic pain with an interdisciplinary program can significantly reduce thoughts of suicide, according to new research from a team led by Drs. John Kowal and Keith Wilson. It is estimated that the rate of suicide for people with chronic pain is at least two to three times higher than in the general population and thoughts of suicide are considered a relevant red flag. The inter-professional program includes a fitness module, group psychotherapy, occupational therapy workshops, relaxation training, group discussions, and educational sessions. Of the 86 people who reported thoughts of suicide at the program’s start, more than half reported none afterward. See the Clinical Journal of Pain for details.

Funders: Canadian Institutes of Health Research; The Ottawa Hospital Rehabilitation Centre

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