Comments on: Know People with Chronic Pain? 17 Crucial Things They Wish You Knew

By: Deb

Deb — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 20:56:20 +0000

In reply to Tamara. I'm so glad this resonated with you! <3 Thank you so much for the well wishes and the same to you! Fibromyalgia fighters are some of the strongest people I know!

By: Tamara

Tamara — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 09:14:26 +0000

Thank you so very much for posting this!! It literally puts all the thoughts concerning my chronic pain (fibromyalgia), from inside my mind, onto black and white. I oftentimes have a hard time expressing my feelings but this expressed them all!! I’m definitely pinned this post and will be sharing in the future. I wish you and your husband all the best.

By: Deb

Deb — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 20:36:18 +0000

In reply to Debbie.

Thank you so much for sharing! I’m sorry to hear that you have experience in that area.

I experience it second-hand through my husband. He’s suffered from chronic pain for the last three years and we have yet to pinpoint the exact cause, despite countless doctor and specialist visits, imaging, testing, etc. Most people’s first reaction when he mentions his pain/discomfort is to suggest a next step. But the way it’s usually presented is as if he’s never considered it (We’ve considered 10 million possible causes and treatments.), and usually very upbeat, like, “Healing is so easy and just around the corner!” It often leaves him feeling more misunderstood and alone, because it minimizes what he lives with every day.

I hope that you find healing and rest from your fibro, and some good friends to lend an ear!

By: Debbie

Debbie — Sun, 29 Apr 2018 23:39:46 +0000

Thank you for sharing this post! It’s so accurate, especially #17. That’s one of the biggest reasons I don’t talk about my illness, (Fibro). Sometimes I just need someone to talk to about it, especially when I’m having a flare. The pain gets so bad that it consumes my mind but I don’t need or want anyone to try to “fix” it or me. That’s not to say I don’t want to feel better! Because I’d love nothing more! But, like most of us, I know this illness. I know what I’ve tried. I know what’s “helped” & what hasn’t. So when/if I talk about how I’m feeling & I get one suggestion after another… Ie., see Dr. so & so, essential oils are what you need, or have you been tested for this or that? I instantly regret bringing it up. Its exhausting to say “oh, that sounds great” or “thank you for suggesting that”.
All I really want is for some to listen for a few minutes, show some understanding & compassion. Don’t question me, don’t suggest anything, just listen.