How to explain your chronic pain to your loved ones

Do you find it hard to talk to your friends and family about your chronic pain? Do they want to be there for you but aren't sure how? Here are some ideas - use all that apply to you! Support is extremely important, and you should never be afraid to ask for it.

Even though my pain is chronic, I have both good days and bad days. Some days, I might feel great and have all the energy in the world. Other days, I might not even be able to get out of bed because of the pain.

I'm often in pain even though it doesn't look like it. I'm so used to being in pain that I don't show it the same way most people do. If I tell you I'm in pain, please don't assume that I'm exaggerating just because it doesn't show.

Sometimes I need to vent and tell someone how much I hate my pain. You don't have to give me advice or try to solve my problems for me. Just be there for me, listen, and give me a hug.
Sometimes I don't want to talk about my pain at all. I just want to forget about it and try to have a normal life, even if it's only for a few hours. I don't want the pain to define who I am. Simply hanging out with friends can make me feel much better.

Just the thought of going to a doctor's appointment can be scary because of all the bad encounters I've had in the past. It can help to have a friend tag along for support, someone who can help me when I forget what to say, who can stand up for me, and help me remember what is said during the appointment.

It can be very difficult to tell people when I'm in a lot of pain or when I need help, because I don't want to be a burden. I know you might feel helpless and even get a little tired of me sometimes. Please be honest with me, and remember, your support means more than you could ever imagine.