SCS and Psychological Readiness
Please Be Honest in Your Evaluation
Let us be candid with you for a moment.
In many cultures, there is a strong value placed on endurance — on not complaining about pain, on not wanting to burden your doctor. You may feel reluctant to speak openly about your struggles.
During the psychological evaluation, you might be tempted to say "I'm fine" or "It's not that bad."
But being honest here is genuinely in your best interest.
The reason is straightforward:
- Answer honestly → Your doctor can create a more accurate treatment plan → SCS results are maximized
- Downplay your symptoms → Your doctor cannot make accurate decisions → You miss out on support that could have helped you
The evaluation results do not judge you as a person. They are data to help make your treatment succeed.
Common Worries — and the Facts
| You might be thinking... | The facts |
|---|---|
| "They'll think I'm weak" | Chronic pain involves real brain changes. It has nothing to do with being weak |
| "They'll refuse to give me SCS" | The goal is to find the optimal timing — not to deny treatment |
| "My family will worry" | A successful treatment outcome will give your family peace of mind |
| "I'll be sent to a psychiatrist" | Coordinating with specialists when needed is a sign of quality healthcare |