Understanding Chronic Pain: A Case Study of Job-Related Stress

Question
This question is about my boyfriend.  Three years ago he started this incredibly stressful job and continued it for over a year.  And had two nervous break downs because he couldn't handle the pressure.  After about 6 months at the job he started to have sever pain in his jaw and neck. Over time the pain moved to his shoulders and back.  More than two years later he is still in constant pain all over his body now, eventhough he has been at this job for the last year.  It takes a lot of energy to do the simplest tasks like the dishes.  Aside from the stress, there should be no reason for him to be in so much pain (he's only 24).  I've been doing some research and think he might have damaged something in his body while being under constant extreme stress for over a year.  And that these damaged items (maybe involving the endocrine glands) are a biological reason for this pain.  He dosen't have health insurance because he can't find a job while he is so miserable.  I also think he's a bit depressed, which my be part of the pain as well.  He does take Adderol for ADD and has taken Zoloft for a little while right after he left this job.  I just want him to be happy again.

Any thoughts?
Thanks
jf

Answer
I think you insight into the relationship between his pain and his depression is right on target.  Though I don't feel he has an endocrine problem, there is no question that chronic stress can affect his health, both physical and emotional.

Realizing that he may be in a vicious cycle (not feeling well, and therefore not getting a job, and then not having insurance to pay for his healthcare to help him feel better) it may be worth while having him see a doctor to start therapy for depression, and then see how his pain is affected.  Certainly a regular exercise program may have an additional helpful effect.

How that helps.