Chronic Pain Crisis in Australia: Delays and Mental Health Impacts

In a sobering revelation, a recent report by Chronic Pain Australia has identified a "devastating national crisis" concerning the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain among Australians. The report highlights alarming trends in diagnosis delays and significant mental health repercussions for individuals suffering from persistent pain. The study was released on July 21, 2025, coinciding with a week-long awareness campaign aimed at educating the public about the complexities of chronic pain management.

Chronic pain, defined as pain that persists most days of the week, affects approximately one in five Australians, or roughly 3.6 million people, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. However, Chronic Pain Australia chair Nicolette Ellis asserts that the actual number is likely closer to four million, with projections estimating that this figure could rise to five million by 2050. This assertion is supported by the findings from the 11th edition of the National Pain Survey, which surveyed nearly 5,000 individuals living with chronic pain.

Nelli Stevenson, a 37-year-old community legal service worker, has experienced chronic pain since her teenage years, exacerbated by a serious medical emergency that took place after the birth of her child. "It took me about 20 years of pushing through the medical system, constantly advocating for myself and fighting to be taken seriously, to be able to find that group of people who could help me," Stevenson stated. Her story illustrates the challenges faced by many individuals navigating the healthcare system in search of effective pain management.

The survey results reveal that over half (54%) of respondents waited more than two years for a diagnosis, with 44% experiencing waits longer than three years. This trend is worsening; the percentage of individuals waiting over three years increased from 41% in 2023 to 44% in 2025. These delays can lead to a "vicious cycle" of chronic pain and mental health issues, according to Ellis, who notes that many respondents experienced significant mental health impacts, including sleep disturbances and strained relationships. Specifically, 74% of survey participants reported mental health effects due to their chronic pain, underscoring the intricate connection between physical and psychological well-being.

The stigma surrounding chronic pain remains a critical concern, as 74% of respondents indicated they felt ignored or dismissed by healthcare professionals and others in their communities. This stigma often exacerbates feelings of isolation and frustration among patients who are already enduring significant physical and emotional burdens. "Many people feel gaslit or stigmatised by health professionals — that this is all in their head and it’s not a true condition," Ellis remarked.

Despite the complexity of chronic pain and the necessity for multidisciplinary care, access to appropriate treatment remains insufficient. Only 18% of survey respondents received referrals to multidisciplinary pain management programs, and of those referred, 30% were unable to secure an appointment. This disparity is particularly pronounced for individuals in rural areas, where access to specialized care is limited. Ellis advocates for integrating multidisciplinary care programs into primary care settings to better support individuals living with chronic pain.

The report calls for chronic pain to be recognized as a condition in its own right, rather than merely a symptom of other health issues. Recognizing chronic pain as a standalone condition could lead to increased awareness and funding, ultimately improving healthcare resources and outcomes for millions of Australians.

For Stevenson, access to early diagnosis and complex care has made an "extraordinary difference." She emphasizes that effective pain management allows individuals to participate more fully in society and maintain a healthier work-life balance. "We all deserve to live as pain-free as possible," she concluded.

As the report is set to be presented to parliament later this week, advocates hope that it will prompt urgent discussions about chronic pain management and the need for systemic change within the healthcare framework. The narrative surrounding chronic pain in Australia reveals a pressing need for reforms that prioritize patient care and address the pervasive stigma that continues to impact those living with this often invisible condition.

In conclusion, as the awareness campaign unfolds, it is imperative for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community members to engage in open dialogues about chronic pain, fostering an environment that validates patients' experiences and promotes effective treatment solutions.