How to be sick: challenges faced by those with chronic pain and illness

"I write in my book, 'I know from experience that nothing positive comes from directing blame at yourself.' When it comes to chronic illness (which includes chronic pain), it's crucial to remember that you are not the enemy. Anyone can get sick, physically or mentally, and anybody can develop chronic pain. I just got an email from a women who turned 20 last month and has been in chronic pain for most of her young life. Chronic pain and illness come with the human condition. It's not your fault when they come calling. Don't make things worse by adding self-blame to the mix. Instead, add self-compassion to help alleviate your emotional suffering."

Toni Bernhard is a patient advocate and the author of How to Be Sick: Your Pocket Companion. (https://amzn.to/3pCHcb9)

She shares her story and discusses her KevinMD article, "10 challenges faced by those with chronic pain and illness." (https://www.kevinmd.com/blog/2020/09/10-challenges-faced-by-those-with-chronic-pain-and-illness.html)

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