Sadly Annabelle, nobody understands this until they are forced to deal with it themselves. I gave up trying to explain to people as they just don't have a clue. I don't have any advice to offer you, but i personally wouldn't put up with someone screaming at me or calling me a drug addict. Thats ignorant! Do you have any local groups that can offer you support? If not an offshoot of TNA, any local chronic pain groups which meet? You may want to call your local hospitals and inquire as to whats available. Take care, EE