Pain Course

The course aims to provide good education and guidance on simple and effective techniques for managing symptoms. Very broadly, the course helps people with thoughts, behaviours and physical symptoms related to pain, depression, and anxiety. Research shows that it helps people gain control over their symptoms, improve their confidence, and get back to living a full, satisfying life.

ANSWERS

How was The Pain Course developed?

The Pain Course was developed in Australia by the eCentreClinic for Emotional Health. It is designed to teach people who have chronic pain how to better manage pain, depression, and anxiety. 

Why was it developed?

The course was designed because so many people never seek treatment, but many have access to the Internet. Because pain, depression, and anxiety commonly occur at the same time it was also felt to be important to provide information that could be used to manage these conditions.

What will this course do for me?

The course aims to provide good education and guidance on simple but effective techniques for managing symptoms. Very broadly, the course helps people with thoughts, behaviours and physical symptoms related to pain, depression, and anxiety.  Research shows that it helps people gain control over their symptoms, improve their confidence, and get back to living a full satisfying life.

How does the course work?

The Pain Course is comprised of 5 lessons. Depending on the complexity of the lesson, it is recommended that clients spend 1 to 2 weeks on a given lesson.  Lessons consist of educational materials that are accessed online, and “Do it Yourself” (DIY) activities and resources that are reviewed offline, as well as additional resources for common concerns. With the suggested time frame, clients should complete the Pain Course in 8 weeks.

What kind of therapist assistance will I have?

The Pain Course is guided. Clients are contacted once a week by a guide over the telephone. The role of the guide is to answer questions and to provide support and encouragement as people complete the course. Clients also have the ability to send questions or comments about the lessons and exercises to their course guide through the website, so that the guide can review the client’s progress and address any concerns. Clients can contact their guide when they like by secure message system, and their guide will respond once weekly over the 8 weeks of treatment.

What research is being done on this course?

More than 1,000 Australians have completed the Pain Course and the results are very encouraging. More than 90% reported the course was worth their time and that they would recommend the course. Most participants said it was hard work. Most also made good clinical improvements in emotional wellbeing and day-to-day functioning. We have also conducted research on the Pain Course in Saskatchewan, and Canada, and are finding very similar results. 

How will my progress on the course be monitored?

Participants will complete questionnaires prior to the start of the program, before each lesson of the program, once they have completed the program, and 3 months after completing the program. The questionnaires will assess pain levels as well as anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Who can take part in the course?

The Pain Course is open to Saskatatchewan residents and is designed for those who have symptoms of depression or anxiety, have had chronic pain for more than 3 months, have seen a doctor about chronic pain, are 18 years of age or older, are comfortable using and have access to the Internet, and have a local medical contact available in case of emergencies. The course is not recommended if you have severe problems with alcohol or drugs, mania, psychosis, or strong thoughts of suicide.

Who can answer my questions about the course?

If you have any questions about the course, please feel free to contact us.

How do I sign up?

If you are interested in participating in the Pain Course, please register below and follow the instructions.