Mixed Experiences and Perceptions of Psychological Treatment for Chronic Pain in Singapore: Skepticism, Ambivalence, Satisfaction, and Potential

Abstract

There is little research in Southeast Asia focusing on patients' experiences of seeking psychological treatment for chronic pain. Objective: This study aims to understand the experiences of patients seeking psychological treatment for chronic pain in this region. Setting: Outpatient pain clinic at a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Subjects: People with experiences of attending psychological treatment for chronic pain, including some who were not receiving this type of treatment. Study design and methods: Fifteen inductive semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore patients' experiences regarding psychological treatment for their chronic pain. Thematic analysis was then applied. Results: Three main themes were identified: "Expectations and Realities of Health Professionals," "Patients' Attitudes and Beliefs," and "Practical and Social Factors." From the patients' perspectives, an empathetic health professional who was willing to listen contributed to a positive treatment seeking experience. Patients felt that health professionals' lack of knowledge about appropriate treatment contributed to their frustration. Patients could not understand how psychological treatment was related to pain treatment and queried why they were "paying just to talk." Conversely, their experiences were quite positive, and they found psychological treatments helpful when they participated in them. Conclusion: Education for both patients and health professionals unfamiliar with psychological treatments for pain may improve access to these treatments.