Chronic Pain and Your Loved Ones
Chronic pain affects a person emotionally, physically, financially, and socially. This additional stress can have an affect on physical and emotional well-being. Chronic pain can leave you feeling isolated and hopeless.
Learning how to educate your loved ones is a critical step in taking control of your pain management plan. Twin Cities Pain Clinic offers our top tips for the pain patient.
Pain might be part of your day, but it is not part of your identity.
There are so many great and unique qualities that make you, YOU! Do not let yourself identify as someone who is held back or disabled by your pain. Focus on all of your strengths and talents to encourage and empower others. Focusing on your pain does not diminish it. Focus on the things that make you feel good about yourself, not on how your pain holds you back.
You know who else loves you for you? Your loved ones of course. Friends and family are always going to be your best source of positive feedback. Be honest with them, and you can expect the same. And they will have no shortage of love and support to provide you during even your most challenging moments.
Consider getting professional help.
If you are struggling to discover ways to decrease stress and understand your chronic pain, it might be time to seek counseling. Counseling can be a very good tool for you and those closest to you.
Chronic pain does not need to be isolating, you will need many players on your team to find treatment options that work for you. Families can learn how to support each other while finding ways to manage your pain.
Keep your family and friends close and in the loop.
Answer phone calls and accept invitations. Be open and honest with how you are feeling. If you need to cancel plans due to your pain, make sure to reach out to them. Can you change your plans to accommodate your needs for that day? Did you make plans to go for a walk with a neighbor, but your back pain is flaring up the day before? Try inviting them over for coffee instead, small things will show you care and that you are invested in your relationship.
Patients who have caring family and friends, are usually better able to cope with their chronic pain. These patients are less likely to experience depression and tend to be more independent. Keep the lines of communication open.
If you or a loved one is suffering from chronic pain, schedule a consult with one of our experts. You are not alone in this.
Call: (952) 841-2345
