I live with chronic pain. Are there any support groups that can help me?
We’re so very sorry to learn that the symptoms of your mental health conditions are worsened by your chronic pain. It’s not uncommon for people with chronic pain to have sleep disturbances, fatigue, trouble concentrating, decreased appetite, and mood changes. These negative changes in your lifestyle can increase your pain and dampen your overall mood; the frustration of dealing with this can result in depression and anxiety. There are a number of organizations that offer support groups for those living with chronic pain. We have listed them below for your reference:
- The American Chronic Pain Association provides information and resources to those suffering from chronic pain including guidance on how to talk with your Healthcare Provider about your pain, pain management skills for chronic sufferers, their families and friends, and an online locator to local support groups. The website also provides information on finding clinical trials.
- U.S. Pain Foundation serves the 50 million Americans who live with chronic pain through its programs and services. It also offers a network of in person and "call in" support groups offered through its affiliated organization, Pain Connection, that also offers specialized classes, a speaker series on treatment modalities, training and supervision of mental health professionals on chronic pain, a newsletter on chronic pain issues, information and referrals, and community outreach and education.
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