Individuals having trouble comprehending their emotions are more vulnerable to having their everyday routine disturbed by chronic pain, according to the latest findings.
Individuals suffering from alexithymia, defined as having trouble in identifying and describing their emotions, experience more distress associated with chronic pain, according to a new study published in the Health Psychology journal on April 28, 2026.
Furthermore, the anxiety and depression that come with this emotional distress make it more probable for chronic pain to interfere with everyday routine, according to the report.
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For the new study, scholars at Johns Hopkins Medicine tracked around 1,500 people with chronic pain located across the United States. The team monitored their pain and used a questionnaire to determine every individual’s level of alexithymia. Results showed that people with higher levels of alexithymia at the beginning of the research had developed more psychological distress a year later.
According to the experts at the American Counseling Association, helping individuals get in better touch with their emotions might help relieve anxiety and depression among chronic pain patients. They also mentioned that these findings highlight the role of considering alexithymia in psychological treatment for chronic pain.
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Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication or treatment.