By Brittany - For four and a half years, chronic migraine has run my life. It’s been at the forefront of most discussions and the primary focus when someone asks “How are you?” It’s hard to talk about sometimes, for fear of feeling like a broken record. Pain levels and symptoms fluctuate so frequently that … Continue reading How My Response to “How Are You?” Has Changed
By Jeannette - On social media I often see fellow patients with chronic pain and illness, questioned and put in the position where they have to explain how they can have a bit of beauty, joy, smiles, and soul shine, while they are sick and in daily pain. Apparently, a smile must negate pain. I … Continue reading You Are Allowed To Live With Pain & Still Shine
By Jeannette - There are many causes of chronic pain--an accident or injury, inflammatory or neurological condition--but no matter the cause, chronic pain impacts our emotions. There is an intersection between physical pain and emotional well being. It is important to discuss this interplay, as well as strategies to address these difficult emotions to improve … Continue reading The Emotional Rollercoaster of Living with Chronic Pain
By Brittany - Anxiety is most commonly perceived as worrying, and someone who doesn’t have anxiety may have a hard time understanding how anxiety feels. You may hear “stop worrying,” “it will be fine,” “it’s all in your head.” These are discouraging and frustrating phrases for people with anxiety to hear. Thankfully, we live in a … Continue reading 5 Ways I Cope With Anxiety & Daily Migraine
By Laura - “How do you cope so well?” Last week, I was taken aback when a close friend of mine texted me these words. My first thoughts were, “Me? Cope? What? I don’t do that!” My mouth gaped open. Coping with chronic illness isn’t something that has come naturally to me. It was hard … Continue reading How Acceptance Taught Me to Cope with Chronic Illness
