Chronic pain and depression: An online survey on Indian experiences

Background: It is now well-established that chronic pain and depression are interrelated but the exact reasons for this association remain unclear. Although, in the majority, chronic pain is the source of depression; in a few, chronic pain is a manifestation of depression. The objective of this survey was to study the pattern of socio-demographic characteristics of persons with depression and chronic pain carried out by online survey. Materials and Methods: Two-hundred and ten psychiatrist from all over India were selected randomly from those who were registered with the Indian Psychiatry Society. Online survey was conducted with these psychiatrists. Survey questionnaire included 16 questions on depression with chronic pain. Results: One hundred and fourteen psychiatrist responded on online survey. The data was compiled and analyzed. The results showed that 201 patients/week visit psychiatric clinics.47% psychiatrist say 15-30% present with chronic pain, 35% say depression with chronic pain is present in 20-40% patients. Eighty-four percent psychiatrist say pain and depression are related to each other. Forty-one say 25-50% patients of chronic pain have depression. Conclusion: The results of this survey showed that chronic pain and depression co-exist commonly.