However, you can't tell a person suffering from a chronic illness that “everyone has bad days.” It's like telling someone to stop complaining. It invalidates their pain or illness. Instead, let them know they're not alone and that you're there for them.
Simple and concise language is important without 'talking down' to patients. Non-verbal communication is just as important as this conveys a sense of warmth and empathy which allows the patient to open up.
Stress intensifies chronic pain. Negative feelings like depression, anxiety, stress, and anger can increase the body's sensitivity to pain. By learning to take control of stress, you may find some relief from chronic pain. Several techniques can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Tips on coping with 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. Talk to yourself constructively. Positive thinking is a powerful tool.
Provide emotional support.
Listen when needed, offer emotional support and encourage open communication about their feelings and experiences. Help them seek professional help if needed. Understand that chronic pain can be unpredictable, and the person may have good and bad days.
Chronic illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes may make you more likely to have or develop a mental health condition. It is common to feel sad or discouraged after having a heart attack, receiving a cancer diagnosis, or when trying to manage a chronic condition such as pain.
Being in a relationship with someone with a chronic illness means there will be limitations, but in return you get other things – more enjoyment and awareness of the moment, more intimacy and closeness, always making the best of any situation.
Social isolation decreases self-care behaviors in people with chronic illnesses. Stigma related to the chronic illness undermines social interactions and predisposes people to loneliness. Social disconnectedness and loneliness in chronic illness patients significantly increase health service use.
If you are suffering from the effects of chronic pain you may qualify for disability benefits. In order to be eligible for SS disability benefits with chronic pain syndrome it must be expected to last for one year and you must have medical evidence.
Scientists have discovered that in chronic pain patients, the region of their brain with regulates emotions is constantly active, even when other regions are more active. This can wear out this area of the brain and mean that it is not functioning optimally, because it's not getting the rest it needs.
Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia are well-known culprits, but persistent pain may also be due to such ailments as cancer, multiple sclerosis, stomach ulcers, AIDS, and gallbladder disease.
Chronic pain is far from just aching bones and sore muscles. It's a whole-body condition that takes a toll on your emotions and moods and can lead to significant mental health issues.
End-of-life (EOL) communication in palliative care is essential to enable dying patients to experience a good death. Honest conversations between physicians and patients regarding treatment expectations, dying wishes and issues they face can have tremendous benefits for patients and their caregivers.
Use plain language instead of medical jargon. Avoid euphemisms – for example, say 'dying' instead of 'passing away'. It might seem harsh but it's important to avoid confusion. Provide written information such as booklets or websites.
GESTURE/SIGNING – people who cannot speak may try to point, make natural gestures, mime, or use a formal 'signing' or 'gestural' system. If you do not know what their gestures mean, look at the context – and ask others for help.
Manipulative patients.
These patients often play on the guilt of others, threatening rage, legal action or suicide. They tend to exhibit impulsive behavior directed at obtaining what they want, and it is often difficult to distinguish between borderline personality disorder and manipulative behavior.