[Demoralization and meaning in life in suicidal ideation : a role for patients suffering from chronic pain?]

Abstract

Chronic pain is strongly related to the emotional state of the individual and may be associated with suicidal ideation. The concepts of demoralization and meaning in life may have a role in suicidal ideation as a factor of crisis and resilience, respectively. Demoralization, and especially one of its elements, hopelessness, predisposes to suicidal behavior and is often associated with chronic pain conditions. In addition, the meaning that a patient with chronic pain attributes to his or her existence may also influence suicidal behavior. Follow-ups focused on demoralization and meaning in life may be a promising psychotherapeutic approach for patients suffering from chronic pain.