10 Treatments for Fibromyalgia

6. Emotional and Psychological Therapies

While fibromyalgia is not a psychological condition, it can have notable psychological effects that, in turn, worsen the condition’s symptoms. The uncertainty surrounding the condition, as well as the ongoing pain and loss of function, often lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. This encourages catastrophizing of pain and feelings of distress.

Emotional and psychological therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can help individuals learn to manage their thoughts and any secondary conditions. In many cases, this also improves feelings of pain and quality of life.