Adolescent chronic pain and mental health
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Double Burden? A multi-method investigation into the experiences of paediatric chronic pain and mental health symptoms
IRAS ID
262368
Contact name
Sharon Bateman
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bath
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Pain is a common experience for youth. For most youth, pain causes little disruption to daily life. However, some youth experience ongoing (chronic) pain that has a harmful effect on their lives, resulting in emotional distress and physical disability. One of the biggest challenges that young people with chronic pain face is that of poor mental health. Research studies have identified that the effects of living with chronic pain and mental health symptoms can continue well into adulthood. In order to better support these youth, a detailed understanding of the specific challenges that youth face when managing both pain and mental health symptoms and how these may impact their treatment is needed.
This is a two-part project where both the youth and the clinician will provide a detailed account of the challenges that young people who experience chronic pain and mental health symptoms face and how these challenges may impact their treatment.
Firstly, part one will involve collecting questionnaire and interview data over two-time points from 200 youth aged 11-19 years and their parents/caregivers regarding their pain-related disability, mental health symptoms and social relationships.
The second aspect of this study (part two) will use interviews and an online survey to explore how 100 clinicians think about treating youth with chronic pain and mental health symptoms and the associated challenges faced in this treatment process.Findings from this series of PhD studies will be used to provide important insights into the challenges and impact of living with chronic pain and mental health symptoms in youth. This new knowledge will inform the existing treatment of chronic pain and mental health in youth, enabling healthcare professionals to better support youth and their families.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/YH/0182
Date of REC Opinion
29 Jul 2019
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion