My friend gave me this tile some years ago which I have propped up in the downstairs toilet. Whenever I go through a bad patch (like I am at the moment) I look at it and repeat the words like saying my mantra. There is definitely something in saying mantra's that keep you on the straight and narrow. I know some people say them often but for me it's when I'm bad that I find they can help me.
Everyone deals with chronic pain in their own way but if you are struggling on your own there are people and support groups available to help you through it. My blogging is one of my ways that I deal with my pain. Writing down how I feel instead of constantly telling people how I feel seems easier and the lovely comments of support that come back after writing it, give me a real boost.
Other people suffering from chronic pain may, when they go through a bad patch, just want to rest and stay at home and not socialise until it has eased.. Other's may find support groups a blessing in disguise being amongst others in a similar situation. At the end of the day everyone has their own way of dealing with pain. One excellent online support group which I have been a member of for some time is http://www.painsupport.co.uk/ and another http://www.self-help.org.uk/directory/pain/ has over 1000 self help organisations listed.
Some friends and family can be amazing and pull you through every time you go through a bad patch. Others, can be quite sarcastic about the fact that you are still attending a certain event or going on holiday when you are 'supposed' to be in so much pain. I have certainly experienced this but I certainly do not feel that you need to explain how and what you do to help you deal with chronic pain, especially to someone who has been lucky enough in their health that they have only had a simple 'headache' to deal with.
I hope this post may help someone who is suffering with pain and help them not feel alone while dealing with it.