Doctor Visits Can Save Lives

Two people holding hands in a comforting wayResearch studies have shown that fibromyalgia patients have an increased risk to die by suicide. Risk factors for suicidal ideation and attempt included self-reported fatigue, dizziness and weakness as well as obesity and drug dependence. However, researchers were able identify that interactions with health-care provider help prevent suicide in fibromyalgia patients. Those who spent more time in follow ups annually and spent significantly more face-to-face time with their health care providers, reported no suicidal ideation or suicide attempts. If patients visit their physicians more frequently the chance of suicidal ideation and attempts decreases significantly. Not only medications but also personal contact can be healing for chronic pain patients.