Coping with pain is a very important topic. I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis nearly 15 years ago. I was almost bed ridden and the pain meds were killing me. I decided to go a different direction. I found a doctor that was against using medications. He started me off by teaching me to change my train of thought. Teaching me how to cope with the pain mentally allowed me to make other changes in my life and the arthritis has been nonexistent for the past 12 years. If you or someone you know is dealing with pain here are some ideas to make the changes needed to live a happier life. Manage your stress. Emotional and physical pain are closely related, and persistent pain can lead to increased levels of stress. Learning how to deal with your stress in healthy ways can position you to cope more effectively with your chronic pain. Eating well, getting plenty of sleep and engaging in approved physical activity are all positive ways for you to handle your stress and pain. Next talk to yourself constructively. Positive thinking is a powerful tool. By focusing on the improvements you are making (i.e., the pain is less today than yesterday or you feel better than you did a week ago) you can make a difference in your perceived comfort level. For example, instead of considering yourself powerless and thinking that you absolutely cannot deal with the pain, remind yourself that you are uncomfortable, but that you are working toward finding a healthy way to deal with it and living a productive and fulfilling life. Next become active and engaged. Distracting yourself from your pain by engaging in activities you enjoy will help you highlight the positive aspects of your life. Isolating yourself from others fosters a negative attitude and may increase your perception of your pain. Consider finding a hobby or a pastime that makes you feel good and helps you connect with family, friends or other people via your local community groups or the Internet. Finally find support. Going through the daily struggle of your pain can be extremely trying, especially if you’re doing it alone. Reach out to other people who are in your same position and who can share and understand your highs and lows. Search the internet or your local community for support groups, which can reduce your burden by helping you understand that you’re not alone. Lastly don't forget to love always, forgive quickly and smile along the way. Thanks for visiting my thought today.
God Bless
Jason
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