British researchers writing in The Journal of Pain, the peer-review publication of the American Pain Society, found that individuals with high levels of anxiety due to chronic pain exhibit more emotional distress and disability, but the use of pain coping strategies can mediate this effect.
The purpose of the study was to examine the role of anxiety on everyday functioning of patients seeking treatment for chronic pain. It was assumed anxiety would be associated with higher levels of distress and impaired functioning. The researchers also evaluated the role of three coping mechanisms to determine their impact as buffers nullifying the effects of anxiety. They are acceptance of pain, mindfulness and values-based action.
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