Specific therapy needs of young adults with chronic pain : Results of a qualitative interview study

Abstract

Young adults find themselves in an unstable phase of life with relationship breaks, falling structures and great challenges in life. Chronic pain makes it difficult to cope with this stage of life due to functional, emotional and social limitations. For this age group there are hardly any target group-specific treatment programs. The aim of the study was to find out what needs the patient group of young adults with chronic pain have with regard to inpatient pain therapy and what need is indicated for aseparate therapy concept for this age group. Within the framework of aqualitative research approach, specific needs of young adults with regard to inpatient pain therapy were surveyed via guideline-based interviews. Atotal of 66interviews were conducted with patients and practitioners. The evaluation was carried out using the method of structuring qualitative content analysis. Five main categories regarding the specific treatment needs of young adult pain patients were identified: respect, belonging, special circumstances, locating the pain and specific elements of therapy. Special living conditions and arespectful treatment attitude are of particular importance. Agreater number of activation offers, ahigher proportion of life counseling and perspective-creating aspects as well as psychotherapeutic offers are anecessity for an efficient therapy. Acceptance and commitment therapy techniques and the positive benefits of peer groups can expand the treatment approach for young adults. Young adults could benefit from atarget group-specific and needs-adapted care structure.