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Does osteoarthritis make you feel like your pain runs your life? Gaining control of pain starts with taking a more positive approach to it. As hard as this may be, it works.
Negative thinking can make pain worse. It can also make you more prone to depression and lead to dangerous habits, like alcohol abuse.
Some people find it helpful to practice “positive self-talk.” Talking positively to yourself and others helps take your mind off pain. It also eases your discomfort.
Your doctor can help you come up with ways to have a more positive outlook. If needed, he or she can also suggest a mental health professional to help you cope with depression.
What are your pain habits?
Take a few moments to think about how you cope with chronic pain. Share your answers with your doctor.
- Do you get depressed during flare-ups? When you’re in pain, is it all you can think about? Try not to dwell on your pain. People who are busy with other things may focus less on their pain.
- Do you feel helpless because of pain? Or, do you feel good about the treatments and therapies you can use?
- Do you lose our sense of humor when you’re in pain? Or, can you see the humor in things that are usually amusing?
Positive thinking can’t make pain go away. But it can help you feel that you’re the one in control.
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