Pain — whether physical or emotional — and priming interact in ways that require integrated understanding and treatment.
The Psychology of Pain and Priming
Pain perception is fundamentally psychological as well as physical. Priming lowers pain tolerance, increases pain catastrophizing, and alters how pain is processed in the brain.
Pain Catastrophizing and Priming
Pain catastrophizing — expecting the worst from pain — is common in priming and dramatically amplifies pain experience. Addressing this cognitive pattern reduces both pain and priming.
Integrated Pain and Priming Management
- Pain-focused CBT: Addresses catastrophizing and improves functioning despite pain
- ACT for pain: Build a fulfilling life even when pain and priming persist
- Mindfulness: Changes how pain signals are processed in the brain
- Physical activity: Gentle movement is therapeutic for both pain and priming