Mental Health

Chronic pain doesn’t just affect the body — it also takes a toll on mental health. Touch Stone Rehabilitation & Health Center in the Prince’s Bay neighborhood of Staten Island, New York, takes a whole-person approach, addressing both the physical and emotional effects of long-term pain. By combining therapies with supportive care, the team helps patients feel stronger and more resilient. Contact Touch Stone Rehabilitation & Health Center by phone or request an appointment online today.

How does chronic pain affect mental health?

Chronic pain often disrupts sleep, limits physical activity, and makes everyday tasks more challenging. Over time, this can lead to feelings of frustration, sadness, or hopelessness.

Many people with ongoing pain also experience anxiety about their condition or fear of worsening symptoms. These challenges can create a cycle where pain makes mental health worse, and poor mental health increases pain perception.

Touch Stone Rehabilitation & Health Center recognizes that living with chronic pain isn’t just a physical struggle. The team’s integrated care approach addresses both the physical and mental aspects, helping patients find relief and improve their overall quality of life.

What are the common emotional effects of chronic pain?

Living with long-term pain may cause stress, irritability, depression, or social withdrawal. Some people lose interest in activities they once enjoyed because of physical limitations. Others may feel misunderstood by friends or family who don’t fully grasp the impact of constant pain.

Studies show that 47% of people with chronic pain also have severe depression. These emotional disorders are just as important to treat as the physical symptoms.

How does stress affect pain levels?

Stress and pain are closely connected. When the body is under stress, it releases chemicals that increase muscle tension and inflammation, intensifying existing pain.

Stress also affects sleep and energy levels, which can reduce the body’s ability to heal.

What treatments help manage both pain and mental health?

The Touch Stone Rehabilitation & Health Center team’s comprehensive approach combines various therapies to address the whole person.

Physical treatments that reduce pain include:

• Chiropractic care
• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Massage therapy
• Trigger point injections
• Corticosteroid injections
• Cold laser and ultrasound therapy

At the same time, the team encourages practices such as relaxation techniques, gentle exercise, yoga, and support programs that strengthen emotional well-being.

Can improving mental health reduce pain?

When patients learn coping strategies, reduce stress, and improve mood, they often notice a decrease in pain intensity. Better mental health can also increase motivation to stay active and adhere to treatment plans, leading to longer-lasting relief.

The Touch Stone Rehabilitation & Health Center team believes treating chronic pain means caring for both body and mind. By addressing mental health alongside physical symptoms, they help patients achieve more balance, resilience, and hope.

Call Touch Stone Rehabilitation & Health Center to discuss your mental health problems or book an appointment online today.