“Chronic pain” has many definitions but usually refers to pain that has lasted longer than 3 to 6 months. The pain itself can be debilitating and negatively affects quality of life. In many cases, the physical and emotional drain of having to deal with the incessant nature of chronic pain will lead to social isolation and depression. Family and friends often don’t truly understand what is going on for the person with chronic pain. Friction results when they wonder why the individual in pain doesn’t simply “pull themselves together and get on with life.” We know it’s not that simple, but this adds another level of stress and further distances the individual from others in their life. Again, isolation and depression are frequent results.
Coming to terms with the limitations that chronic pain places on one, and yet being able to visualize living a full and happy life can be a difficult journey. Counseling can help work through the frustrations and losses of living with chronic pain. It can help develop new goals and plans for living as full a life as possible. No matter what the pain condition and the physical limitations, happiness and fulfillment can always be attained.
In some instances, family counseling can reduce tensions and increase understanding in the home environment. It allows family members to be more supportive by providing an opportunity for them to voice their frustrations, concerns and needs.
Find more resources at
- The Canadian Pain Coalition – a Partnership of patient pain groups and health professionals who care for people in pain, and scientists studying better ways of treating pain.