Chronic pain is a complex, deeply personal experience that affects each individual differently. In Australia, the toll of chronic pain is staggering: over 3.4 million Australians live with this persistent condition, significantly impacting their quality of life and placing an enormous burden on the nation’s economy. In 2020, the economic costs from lost productivity and healthcare expenses related to chronic pain were estimated to reach $144.1 billion. Unfortunately, these numbers are projected to climb. Without systemic changes, the number of Australians suffering from chronic pain could rise to 5.2 million by 2050, with associated costs projected to surge to $215.6 billion.
Limited Treatment Options and Reliance on Medication
For many Australians, treatment options for chronic pain remain limited. Due to long waiting times and a lack of accessible specialist services, medications often become the default approach to managing chronic pain.
Paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, opioids, and other analgesics are among the most commonly prescribed pain relief medications. However, reliance on these medications can have severe consequences. In Australia, opioid-related deaths now surpass fatalities on the national road toll, underscoring the need for careful regulation.
In response, the Australian Government introduced new regulatory changes in June 2020, restricting access to certain opioids and modified-release paracetamol to promote safer prescribing practices. These reforms aim to mitigate the risk of opioid misuse while ensuring that patients have appropriate pain management options. However, feedback from chronic pain sufferers suggests that these changes have also led to new challenges in accessing pain relief.
Exploring Alternative Treatments
For those able to access alternative treatments, physiotherapy and psychological support are among the most recommended services. Unfortunately, not many are being offered these non-medicinal treatments. The pandemic has further limited access to alternative therapies.
The Link Between Chronic Pain and Mental Health
Living with chronic pain is closely associated with mental health challenges. PainAustralia’s Cost of Pain in Australia report found that 44.6% of chronic pain sufferers also live with depression or anxiety, making it the most common co-occurring condition. Major depression is prevalent among chronic pain patients, and studies show that between 30-40% of people with a mental health diagnosis also report chronic pain. Chronic pain sufferers are also two to three times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors compared to the general population. Many respondents reported heightened anxiety and stress, particularly in light of recent opioid prescription changes.
Moving Forward
As Australia’s chronic pain crisis continues to grow, there is a pressing need for more accessible, comprehensive pain management services. Expanding access to alternative therapies, improving mental health support, and ensuring safe medication practices are critical steps. Addressing these issues will not only help individuals manage their pain but also reduce the significant social and economic burden chronic pain places on Australia.
* based on painaustralia survey report April 2022
Holistic Physio Osborne Park | Chronic Pain & Clinical Pilates – Design To Move 
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