This study looks at the intersection of pain, decision-making, and recovery from substance use disorder. Specifically, it examines whether pain catastrophizing—the tendency to magnify or feel helpless about pain—helps explain the relationship between delay discounting and quality of life among people in recovery who report pain. Findings suggest that greater delay discounting is associated with greater pain catastrophizing, which in turn is linked with poorer physical, psychological, social, and environmental quality of life. The article highlights the importance of addressing both impulsive decision-making and maladaptive responses to pain when supporting long-term recovery and overall well-being.