Comorbid Pain, Depression, and Anxiety: Multifaceted Pathology Allows for Multifaceted Treatment

The care of patients who suffer from physical pain and a psychiatric illness is typically challenging because of the complex interplay of affective, behavioral, cognitive, and physical aspects of pain. Psychiatrists are often asked to evaluate patients with pain because of a concern for comorbid depression and anxiety, and fears of suicidality as a result of pain. This article reviews the pathophysiology of comorbid pain, anxiety, and depression, along with the treatment modalities (pharmacologic, psychotherapeutic, and "alternative") that may benefit all three conditions.