It is only natural when we are going through physical pain or emotional pain to pull back, and lose touch with those around us. After all, it isn’t always easy to explain to your grandchild why you can’t come outside to play, or to your friends why you are cancelling on the weekly coffee, once again.

The reality is, it is not a simple task to describe your pain to others, or the toll it can take on your life. You can find some tips on how to find the words to describe your pain to others on our article on types of pain and how to talk about it.

While you are not wishing pain on anyone else, there can be comfort in knowing you aren’t going through it alone.

So it is only natural that finding others who understand what you are feeling because they are also going through the same, can give an enormous sense of relief and connection. In fact various studies have even shown that people who have stronger social connections, tend to see a reduction in pain levels. ¹

Thankfully there are plenty of resources available if you want to connect and talk about living with pain with other people outside your family or friendship circle. There are pain support groups, clinics, and pain management programs that you can get involved with.

Spending time connecting with others in the same boat can be about sharing tips on physical pain management as well as emotional pain management, or simply talking about your experiences and knowing they will understand.