The truth about pain is something that we don’t often want to think about. When we hurt we want to eliminate or erase our pain, to alleviate it. We do anything we can to avoid or stop pain. The truth is we need pain.
Recent studies have shown that emotional pain is similar to physical pain sharing similar “wiring” in the brain but with some noted differences on brain scans. In fact, some authors theorize that emotional pain causes physical pain. When someone feels like screaming yet holds it in, they may feel tension and pain in their neck and shoulders. Reference: Alan Fogel, PhD., Emotional and Physical Pain Activate Similar Brain Regions, April 19, 2012.
Why do We Need Pain?
We need pain sensors to help us know if our body needs help. If I accidentally step an a pin, I want to know. I need to remove the pin and clean my foot to prevent infections. Pain is also an indicator that we are in danger, such as the pain from a poisonous snake bite. In this context, pain is a survival mechanism.
Secondly, pain also prevents us from injuring ourselves. The pain from heat will stop a person from laying their hand on a hot stove.
Thirdly, in an odd twist, pain helps us experience increased pleasure once the pain is removed. One study reported the enjoyment of food (chocolate) was increased after the pain stimuli was removed. Have you ever noticed this for yourself?
Yet another benefit of experiencing any form of pain is the opportunity to develop resilience and growth.
Coping With Pain – Perspective Is Key
I have more than one form of arthritis. Often, my feet will feel like they are on fire. Would I like to be pain free? Absolutely! However, I know if I treat my feet with care, take my medicine and get regular exercise, I am taking the best care of myself.
I maintain a positive attitude by talking to my body, telling my joints what I am doing to help them feel better today. When I plunge my feet into a bucket of ice water or walk bare foot in the snow, I know my feet will feel better in a few minutes.
It occurred to me if I give in to feeling sorry for myself, the pain intensifies. When I distract myself by working on a hobby or reading, the pain falls to the back of my mind, I do not suffer as much.
For me a positive attitude is a form of pain reliever.
A positive attitude takes time to develop. Resilience to any pain, physical or emotional can be achieved with education, understanding, social support and practice.
What If There Is No Pain Relief?
A co-worker had an accident which involved a terrible back injury. She eventually was qualified for permanent disability. I saw her one day and asked after her health. She said, “If I have to live with this pain the rest of my life, I would rather die.”
At the time, she was trying to come to terms with the new “normal” for her body. If you are in this situation, be patient with yourself. Learning to live with unrelenting pain is a difficult, life changing challenge.
In my next post, I will be tackling the issue of learning to live with pain and techniques to reduce the negative impact on your life.
Please feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear what healthy tips you have for coping with pain either emotional or physical.
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