ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH DAILY PAIN – THE SORT OF PAIN THAT AFFECTS EVERYTHING YOU DO, AND DEBILITATES YOU? DO YOU FIND YOUR PAIN IRRITATES YOU AND MAKES YOU AGGRESSIVE, OR SNAPPY?
There are currently 3.6 million Australians living with chronic pain. And you probably know by now, it’s not just a physical ailment; it can take toll on your mental and emotional well-being.
Feelings You May Experience From Your Pain
- Isolation
- Frustration
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Being snappy or short with those around you
- Unmotivated
It can affect your quality of life and relationships, plus the fear of missing out on life can be overwhelming for some. I bet you don’t want to miss out anymore, do you?
The Physical & Mental Relationship
Therapy has been proven as a useful resource for people struggling with chronic pain. It offers a holistic approach to managing pain by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of pain. It can not only help you gain a greater understanding of the mental effects of the pain, but you can together with your therapist develop coping strategies to implement into your daily life, improving your overall quality of life and ability to function each day.
One crucial aspect of therapy is to help you understand the mechanisms of your pain. Therapists will educate you about the mind-body connection, helping you recognise how stress and emotions can influence pain perception. You will walk away feeling equipped with some pain management strategies, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral interventions. Understanding and applying these strategies can lead to significant improvements in pain management.
Tips at home for coping with pain
- Take a few minutes each day to practice deep, diaphragmatic breathing. This can help relax your body and reduce pain perception.
- Gentle stretching can help alleviate muscle tension and improve flexibility. Focus on areas that are often tense or painful.
- Apply heat packs or cold packs to the affected area(s) to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Experiment to find out which works best for you.
- Track your pain levels, activities, and emotions in a journal. This can provide valuable insights for you and your therapist.
- Engage in short mindfulness meditation sessions to improve your ability to stay present and reduce stress, which can exacerbate pain.
- Maintain a level of physical activity that suits your condition. Gentle exercises like walking or swimming can keep your body and joints mobile.
- Ensure you get enough quality sleep. Establish a bedtime routine and create a comfortable sleep environment to improve your sleep patterns.
- Eating well can help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Dehydration can exacerbate pain. Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to keep your body functioning optimally.
- Join a support group or reach out to loved ones for emotional support. Sharing your experiences and feelings with others who understand can be comforting.
While these home actions can provide some relief, it’s important to remember that professional intervention with a psychologist offers personalised guidance and a comprehensive approach to chronic pain management. If you or someone you know is living with chronic pain, seeking the support of a qualified therapist can make a profound difference in the journey towards a pain-free and fulfilling life. Don’t let chronic pain hold you back; explore the potential of therapy in managing your pain and regaining control over your life.
Written by Rebecca Deane – Clinical Psychologist – Sydney, Hills District, (Bella Vista / Baulkham Hills / Castle Hill region)
