Depression is common among people with chronic pain. The connection between chronic pain and depression goes both ways: long-term pain can lead to depression, while depression can worsen the experience of pain and make it harder to manage daily life. This two-way relationship often makes it difficult to distinguish which came first.

Chronic pain affects life in many ways that can lead to depression. Persistent pain often limits one’s ability to work, exercise, participate in social activities, and carry out daily tasks. This can cause feelings of frustration, hopelessness, and isolation. Many experience that their identity and self-esteem are affected when they can no longer do the things they used to. Some feel misunderstood by those around them, especially when the pain is invisible or difficult to explain.

Sleep disturbances, fatigue, and constant discomfort exhaust both body and mind, increasing the risk of depressive symptoms. Many lose interest in activities they once found meaningful, and some experience difficulties with concentration and memory. Feelings of guilt or worthlessness may arise, especially if one feels like a burden to others.

There are biological links between chronic pain and depression. Both conditions affect the brain and the body’s systems that regulate pain perception and mood. This means that long-term pain can increase the risk of depression, and depression can at the same time intensify the experience of pain. In this way, the two conditions can create a negative spiral where pain and low mood reinforce each other.