Forced Changes
It has been almost three years since I developed Central Pain Syndrome after a whiplash injury. And in that time myself and my family have had to deal with a lot, especially on an emotional level.
One of the biggest hurdles I faced from the beginning of the pain was the forced changes to my life. As I struggled to adapt to chronic pain that was yet to be diagnosed, things changed rapidly for me. I suddenly had limitations.
I was unable to do the job I was trained to do and spent months off work waiting for a diagnosis, which to me meant a solution. My family suffered financially as a result of my inability to function at work.
I began to resent myself which in turn caused me to spiral into depression and anxiety. With a young family to support I feared for our future. My wife was unable to work as we had one year old triplets at that time.
looking back, it was a hard period. And although I still suffer with chronic pain, I have at least now found myself at a place of acceptance. I have finally given up fighting myself and am more focused on what I can do to improve my life and mental well-being.
No body likes curve balls. Obstacles that crop up in the stream of life that cause us to change direction. I hated that I had lost control of my life. That I was now at the mercy of the monster, one I had to somehow learn to live with.
The more I struggled with cps the further I sank into the negativity surrounding my condition. For my own mental health I had to let go of the resentment that was festering in me. I learned early on that I could do little about the pain, so the main focus had to be on mentally dealing with the negative emotions and overthinking.
I had to break the cycle of negativity.
I needed to make positive changes in my life. I changed my diet, added more meditation practice and began connecting with other sufferers on social media. The sense of community with those on common ground was so important, especially in the early days. To know I wasn’t alone brought me a huge sense of relief.
Life is full of the unexpected. Some events bigger than others, but one thing is sure: we have to find a way to overcome the obstacles life throws at us. And for me CPS is no different. I had to learn new skill sets, find new ways to manage, and to begin to live again with purpose and not let my pain define me.
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