Living with chronic pain: it's not just physical

CHRONIC pain – that persistent ache or throbbing that just won’t go away – is a tough companion to have. It can disrupt your sleep, limit your activities, and generally make life feel like a bit of an uphill struggle. But what many people don’t realise is that the impact of chronic pain goes far deeper than just the physical discomfort. It can also take a serious toll on your mental health.

It might sound obvious, but our minds and bodies are deeply connected. When you’re in constant pain, it’s natural to feel stressed, anxious, or even depressed. These feelings can then make the pain feel worse, creating a vicious cycle.

Imagine living with a constant low-level ache. It might be like a dull background noise in your life, but over time, it can wear you down. You might start to feel isolated, as you find it harder to join in activities you once enjoyed. Your self-esteem might take a hit as you compare yourself to others who seem to be pain-free.

Common mental health challenges

People with chronic pain are more likely to experience:

• Depression: Feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or worthless.

• Anxiety: Worrying excessively, feeling restless, or having difficulty concentrating.

• Anger: Feeling irritable or frustrated, often due to limitations caused by pain.

• Sleep problems: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing poor quality sleep.

It’s important to remember that experiencing these feelings doesn’t make you weak. It’s a normal response to a challenging situation.

Coping strategies

So, what can you do to manage both the physical and mental aspects of chronic pain? Here are a few tips:

• Talk about it: Sharing your feelings with friends, family, or a support group can be incredibly helpful.

• Stay active: Regular exercise, even gentle activities like walking or swimming, can boost your mood and help manage pain.

• Relaxation techniques: Try techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce stress and anxiety.

• Set realistic goals: Break down tasks into smaller steps and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small.

• Look after your physical health: Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and manage any other health conditions.

Remember, everyone experiences pain differently, and what works for one person might not work for another. It’s important to find strategies that work for you and to be patient with yourself.

If you're struggling with chronic pain, please remember that help is available, any chronic pain should always be brought to the attention of your GP.

Martin Furber is a therapist. Contact: wellbeing@martinfurber.com

Please note: If you feel you are in a mental health crisis or emergency and may be in danger of causing harm to yourself or others then please contact your GP, go to A&E, call NHS 111, the Samaritans on 116 123 or text SHOUT to 85258