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Emotion Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals identify, understand, and express their emotions in a healthy and adaptive way. While EAET has been primarily used to treat mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, research has shown that it can also be effective in treating chronic pain — a complex condition that often involves both physical and psychological factors. Here's how:
Helps to Identify and express emotions
One study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that EAET was effective in reducing pain and improving quality of life in a sample of 30 individuals with chronic pain. Participants who received EAET showed significant improvements in their ability to identify and express their emotions, as well as in their overall emotional functioning and pain recovery.
Reduces Pain catastrophizing
Another study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine found that EAET was effective in reducing pain catastrophizing in a sample of 63 individuals with chronic pain. Pain catastrophizing refers to the tendency to magnify the negative aspects of pain and feel helpless and overwhelmed by it. Participants who received EAET showed significant improvements in their ability to regulate their emotions and reduce pain catastrophizing.
Treats Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder
Research has also shown that EAET can be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — which can directly exacerbate pain. A study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that EAET was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in a sample of 119 adults. Participants who received EAET showed significant improvements in their ability to identify and express their emotions, as well as in their overall emotional functioning.
Reframes negative thoughts and beliefs related to pain
One of the key components of EAET is the use of mindfulness techniques, which have been shown to be effective in reducing stress and improving emotional regulation. By teaching individuals to identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs related to pain, EAET can help individuals develop a more positive outlook on their pain and improve their overall emotional well-being.
Overall, research suggests that EAET can be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions - particularly those related to emotional dysregulation – as well for chronic pain. By helping individuals develop greater emotional awareness and expression, EAET can improve pain recovery and help individuals lead more fulfilling and satisfying lives.
