For many people who suffer from chronic pain, depression is an unfortunate consequence, but research shows that people in comforting relationships are more likely to avoid depression. People who indicated they were in secure relationships and felt supported in their social life were less likely to suffer from depression. Nurturing relationships can improve our mental health, despite the presence of chronic pain. Ultimately, having healthy emotional support at home can go a long way toward alleviating depression.
Chronic
pain can make you feel isolated, afraid, and disrupt your normal
lifestyle. It’s estimated that one in three people suffer from chronic
pain. Don’t let pain consume your life, start taking back control of
your life. There are more important things in your life to focus on,
such as friends, family, work, and hobbies. Chronic pain support groups
can be a great way to realize that the pain you are having, and the
emotions that come with it are not unusual.
The
people in your life need to know how you are feeling, you can’t expect
them to read minds. Staying silent will only cause them to feel
estranged from you. On the other hand, sharing too much can cause them
to feel overwhelmed. The right amount of communication is key. Giving
your loved ones or friends a chance to help you in some way can also
make them feel closer to you. Our friends and family members often want
to help us but don’t always know how to take the first step.
Don’t
let chronic pain keep you from interacting with friends. Canceling
plans can be disappointing for all concerned, so if you can manage some
level of activity with your pain, you should. Dealing with chronic pain
can be frustrating, but communicating and staying close to loved ones
and friends will help you cope with daily living. Healthy relationships
have a balance between support and encouraging independence. Good
communication and keeping your relationships strong in spite of pain is
VITAL.
Also
keep in mind that exercise leads to a healthier body, and a healthier
body feels less pain. Strong toned muscles feel less pain than unused
muscles. Exercise will give you more of the energy you need to overcome
pain, and when you are fit, you’ll feel better about yourself-more in
control.
Lastly,
identifying and reducing sources of constant stress in your life can
help diminish pain. Fostering social interactions through support
groups and maintaining a POSITIVE outlook are good coping strategies.
STAY ACTIVE!
Take care!
Gail, PTA
