Millions of Americans suffer from chronic pain. Chronic pain is not only debilitating physically, but emotionally too. Chronic pain patients spend time at a multitude of doctor appointments, standing in line at the pharmacy and subjected to the Guinea Pig Wheel of medication roulette. It takes time and patience to find proper doctor care and correct medication. However, even with proper doctor care, often the seven-minute slot for the doctors to see you, they do not have the time to genuinely deal with the psychological effect chronic pain takes on an individual. This process is exhausting, not to mention the physical pain that wipes a person of energy and desire to want to participate in life.
Sadly, people with chronic pain turn inward and away from social outlets, at a time when they desperately need connection. It is also taxing to explain how you physically feel to someone who has never experienced chronic pain, especially if your chronic pain is, “Invisible Pain.” Invisible pain is naked to the eye; you look healthy on the outside. Some patients with chronic pain feel judged and misunderstood by others. This can lead to isolation and intense feelings of hopelessness. When the illness causing the chronic pain is out of ones hands, what can one do?
· Stress can exacerbate symptoms. Learn proper stress relief skills.
o Meditate
o Find light exercise that works for you (with doctors approval). Examples: Yoga, Light Walking
o Fear can sneak up. Stay present and practice Mindfulness.
· Create a support system and educate them on your needs.
· Seek counseling with a therapist that understands chronic pain.
· Take time to figure out “Who am I with this illness?” & “How do I not allow this illness to become me?”
For more help, contact Danielle Baksic, MS, LPC-Intern
Sadly, people with chronic pain turn inward and away from social outlets, at a time when they desperately need connection. It is also taxing to explain how you physically feel to someone who has never experienced chronic pain, especially if your chronic pain is, “Invisible Pain.” Invisible pain is naked to the eye; you look healthy on the outside. Some patients with chronic pain feel judged and misunderstood by others. This can lead to isolation and intense feelings of hopelessness. When the illness causing the chronic pain is out of ones hands, what can one do?
· Stress can exacerbate symptoms. Learn proper stress relief skills.
o Meditate
o Find light exercise that works for you (with doctors approval). Examples: Yoga, Light Walking
o Fear can sneak up. Stay present and practice Mindfulness.
· Create a support system and educate them on your needs.
· Seek counseling with a therapist that understands chronic pain.
· Take time to figure out “Who am I with this illness?” & “How do I not allow this illness to become me?”
For more help, contact Danielle Baksic, MS, LPC-Intern
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