Experiencing pain, regardless of its type or form, is only normal. This means that you do not need to worry about it if the inconvenience or discomfort brought about by pain only lasts for less than an hour, especially when there is a clear medical explanation for such pain.
However, when the pain lasts for more than twelve weeks, the situation is already considered as serious or severe. “Pain can impact one’s ability to engage in activities and relationships with others,” says pain psychologist Beth Darnall PhD. In such case, it is proper to say that you are suffering from chronic pain. This kind of pain may last for months or even years. If you are going through chronic pain, make sure to remember these tips:
- Make Meditation A Daily Habit. An excellent way to ease the pain is to practice deep breaths and meditation. These can help your body to relax completely. As a result, the tension from the muscles is quickly released. At the same time, it is also a proven way to improve your mood for the day. It can help you attract more positive thoughts or create better mantras.
- Exercises On A Regular Basis. The brain releases chemicals or hormones that can make you feel good or better about your situation. These are called endorphins, which are responsible for boosting one’s disposition. Aside from this, exercise can also help you lose weight. In the long run, it can strengthen your muscles and enable you to fight other health problems. As what John M. Grohol, Psy.D. said, “Exercise and physical activity keep your body fit, which in turns helps to keep your mind fit.”
- Avoid Stress. A recent study shows that a person who is stressed is more likely to experience adverse situations or circumstances in his life. Too much stress can also elevate the pain that a particular patient is feeling. Because of this, it is essential for you to avoid things and people that are considered as stressors in your life. Eliminating these stressors can lower your body’s feeling of pain.
- Stop Drinking Alcohol. Now that you are suffering from chronic pain, the best thing to do is to avoid alcoholic beverages. It is time to cut back on your alcohol consumption. Take note that these drinks can cause insomnia or difficulty in sleeping. Lack of sleep can worsen your medical situation. Instead, fill your body with water or tea. These are proven to be effective in improving one’s quality of life.
- Join A Support Group. There are many associations or organizations created for the sole purpose of giving hope and inspiration to people who are suffering from chronic pain. If you want to learn more about the stories of other people and to help each other, then a good option for you is to join a support group. It is highly recommended that you only join a team that you are comfortable with. Do not try to force yourself into becoming a member in a community that you cannot relate to.
For someone who is suffering from chronic pain, you may think that there is no way out. Well, you are wrong because there are still many ways that you can do to improve your situation. According to Israeli clinical health psychologist Golan Shahar Ph.D., “Fortunately, currently available psychological interventions address chronic pain patients’ tendency to dangerously throw themselves into the future.” Listen to what your pain doctor is telling you and do not forget to take note of the tips presented above.