GETTING HELP FROM YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHEN IN CHRONIC PAIN…

It is very important to have a good family and friends support system set up when you are suffering from chronic pain.

Any treatments that you have, you should try and make a point of going with either a friend or a member of your family, never on your own.

Everyone is aware of the need to be understanding, tolerant and patient with the sufferer. But you should apply the same principle to yourself. Just as you can understand the worry of your loved ones, be aware of your own fears, and be understanding to yourself as well.

Don’t be frightened of asking for help from your loved ones as unless you ask they may not know you need some help. I am without doubt dreadful at this and start doing a job instead of asking for help,then I get in a mess trying to finish it. My family are always saying to me ‘Why didn’t you ask….?’

Share your worries and feelings with your loved ones, don’t bottle it up, the odd ‘good cry’ can make you feel tons better.

Withdrawal is the most destructive response of all. If you withhold your own pain, you’ll almost inevitably begin to withdraw emotionally from the relationship, which will produce even more hurt and pain.

It is natural that every family member of someone who is suffering from chronic pain, feels both the desire and the responsibility to be as supportive and caring as possible. However, you need to let them take care of their own needs first while allowing them to help you in any way they can. This keeps everyone happy.