NEW research is looking to examine how pain can be influenced by thoughts and feelings.
University of Queensland researcher and clinical psychologist Rachel Elphinston said stress and other factors could increase severity of pain and dependence on medication.
She said living with chronic pain was a significant challenge and treatments were not currently tailored to the circumstances of individuals.
"If we can better understand which factors influence pain and its management, we can design approaches to help people get on with their lives and do the things they enjoy," Dr Elphinston said.
"By engaging with people who have chronic pain, we hope to understand the range of contributing factors so we can improve access to the right treatment at the right time."
More than 3.2 million Australians live with chronic pain caused by arthritis, injury, back or neck problems, post surgical pain and nerve related pain.
The research team is looking for adults with chronic pain conditions to fill out a short online questionnaire.
Participants will go into a draw to win one of two $100 gift vouchers.
To complete the study, click here.