Living with Chronic Pain

Force yourself to get out of bed and experience life again. Go to a party, sports event, play or concert. Stay connected to your hobbies and interests. Take that painting class you always wanted to take. Take your son to his soccer practice. These activities can reconnect you to the land of the living and remind you of what in life is most worth savoring. Distractions help keep the mind occupied with matters other than just the pain. They may even allow you to forget about the pain for that temporary period.

Tip #8: Carpe Diem

It's normal to feel depressed when living with chronic pain. Seeking out joy and consciously finding happiness are important to feeling good. Make family and friends a priority and relish those relationships. Participate in their activities and remember your own passions. For me, being appreciative of what I do have helps combat my feelings of loss. Nevertheless, it is essential for chronic pain patients to have adequate psychological support, whether that is a trained therapist or psychologist, antidepression medication and/or a support group.

My life has been altered irrevocably by my condition. Nevertheless, I am mindful that I don't have a monopoly on life-changing situations. Despite the hardships, my condition has led to new joys that would never have come my way. I wouldn't be surfing with my son or writing with my daughter, for example, had I not decided to throw myself back into their—and my own—passions.

For more about Lynne and The Body Broken visit www.lynnegreenberg.com.