The Benefits Of Pain Support Groups Online

By Marissa Velazquez


Individuals enduring chronic pain often withdraw from social interaction. It is too hard for them to put up a facade and endure well meaning advice. In a situation like this, pain support groups online can have a valuable function. They enable these sufferers to interact with others who will understand exactly what they are going through and share the bad and the good times with them.

Going through such suffering wreaks havoc on both the body and the mind. It also has an effect on loved ones caring for the sufferer who have to watch the suffering. Sufferers often feel guilty about the burden they are placing on their loved ones. Going online offers a way of expressing emotions and feelings to others in similar circumstances that may be difficult for loved ones to hear.

People may view a group like this as a forum where people get together to whine about their problems and seek attention. This is often far from the truth. Fellow sufferers tend to be supportive and constructive. They also often see the funny side of what they are going through and humor is one of the tools used for coping.

The participants usually come from a wide diversity of backgrounds and from all over the world. Factors like age, racial identity, gender and social status are not as obvious in such a group. An international pool of experience and companionship is available from which participants can draw. It is even possible to find solutions to practical problems. The problem can be shared and an answer is sure to come from one of the many participants.

Accessibility is one of the main benefits of such a group. Even those who have no access to transport or who are not mobile or bedridden are able to participate. No matter what the circumstance, access to such a group is possible. There are participants available at all times of the day or night, so there is no time, even in the early hours of the morning, when help cannot be accessed.

It is often in such a situation that an individual will feel more comfortable to discuss embarrassing issues. There is a freedom to communicate that may not be possible in face-to-face situations. This ability to unburden can make a real difference in helping to resolve such issues and benefit from the experience of others.

There is also the potential in such a group of being able to help others. People who frequently experience chronic pain do not often have such an opportunity. Reaching out to someone else who has posted a question or just needs company may offer some sense of purpose that would otherwise be missing.

Pain support groups online can make a significant difference in the life of someone who is suffering. These individuals often find any other social interaction extremely difficult. With an online group, they can access it when they feel up to it or when they really need help. They can provide comfort to others to and share in all the ups and downs together.




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