Living with chronic pain isn’t just a physical experience – it can also take a huge toll on your emotional wellbeing.
The intricate connection between pain and emotions is undeniable, often leading to a complex interplay that can exacerbate both.
The feeling of being unable to live a normal life can understandably impact mental health, with many chronic pain sufferers missing out on hobbies, life events and other activities, with additional worry about finances if work is affected.
Therapy can be a vital tool in not only addressing the physical discomfort that chronic pain brings, but also in building emotional resilience.
At Newcastle Psychologist, we provide chronic pain counselling in Newcastle that can help individuals with chronic pain and illness to improve their wellbeing in order to live a full life.
Here are our tips that can help in your journey to controlling pain and maintaining positive mental health:
Rest, Recharge and Relax
We all have days where we simply need to relax and recharge – more so for those experiencing chronic pain. Take the time to remember that each day is a new chapter in your journey to managing that pain, and be gentle with yourself as you learn what works best for you.
Stay Active with Gentle Exercise
By finding safe forms of exercise for your body (e.g., walking, yoga, swimming or gentle stretching), you can help to boost your emotional health, learn to connect with your body again, and feel empowered by what it is capable of doing.
Start a Gratitude Journal
Although you may be experiencing pain, it can be extremely beneficial to remember the things you are thankful for. At the end of each day, write down 3 things for which you are grateful. Whatever these things may be, remembering positives in the day can help you to remain optimistic.
Try to Sleep Well
Although sleeping may be difficult with chronic pain, being well-rested is essential for good health. Try gentle exercises before bed, such as restorative yoga or an evening walk, have a warm bath, or read a relaxing novel to wind down.
Involve Yourself in Therapy
If you are experiencing anxiety or depression connected to chronic pain, seeking help from a professional therapist can help.
Our team of psychologists and chronic pain counsellors in Newcastle can help you to reduce symptoms, improve quality of sleep, and find meaning in life.
Therapies including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Hypnotherapy offer valuable tools for improving your emotional health, empowering you to improve your quality of life so that pain or disability doesn’t hold you back.
Chronic Pain Therapy Newcastle
For those feeling overwhelmed with illness or disability, our chronic pain counselling in Newcastle can help you to live a higher quality of life in the face of difficulty.
Contact our team today by filling in the form below to send us a message, or call to speak to us on 07966 645 198.
Best wishes,
Dr Stuart Sadler
Lead Clinical Psychologist
