Healthgirl you are working through the mental exercises needed to help you Cope with a long-term or life-long Chronic Pain condition.
To both of you, the Goal is Acceptance, of being in constant, excruciating pain. Losing one's social, and possibly work, life. Being restricted in what tasks one can do. Losing friends/partners. Warding off Depression.
I have suffered extreme Chronic Pain that has become worse year on year for 25 years with added complications like TN, Cluster Headaches and Cancer. I Accept that the damage done to my body causes some of the pain. Other factors cause other problems which I also have to Accept.
But I don't do it meekly. I still see all my Doctors, even Neuros again this month, to see if there are any improvements over the pain/neuro meds I take. I also read when I can. Today I found out there may be a link between some of my Neuropathic problems and heavy use at work of Xylene and Toluene in the '80s.
Work on Accepting your conditions, while fighting it every step of the way.

Dave.

I had dealt with headaches, back pain, etc. for several years; but still could lead a pretty active live. Since I had my spinal fusion/laminectomy over 8 years ago the world that I had known rapidly started to change. Continuing spine pain, along with Periphereal Neuropathy pain, Narcotic meds to help with the 24/7 pain, leading to bladder surgery with additional medical issues. I felt the depression deepening and not wanting to pick myself up. Just wanted to hid and cover myself under the blanket as a safe haven.

Thankfully, I realized all this would only lead to additional disability and depression which by my own actions was bringing me down. My biggest enemy was my dwelling on what I could no longer do instead of being grateful for what I am able to do. I still can do laundry; maybe a little slower and takes a few extra days. I can still put some meals together; not like the ones I use to enjoy making. I felt satisfaction at being to accomplish a whole list of things that were now done just differently.

The biggest accomplishment was/is acceptance of my life as it is now instead of dewelling on how it once was. Of course, there are times when I feel a bit down; but don't stay there for long. Since it takes me longer to accomplish certain things; I don't have time to be on the "pity pot" for long. Also found other areas I now enjoy that I hadn't even thought of before.


Gerry

Amen to that
the answer is that simple
it is the truth
some harder for other
but we must strive for this truth
all else will be easier to deal with
it is what it is
wishing all well