The Cure for Chronic Pain with Nicole Sachs, LCSW S5 E7 - "The First Thing to Leave Was the Fear" - Migraines, Generational Autoimmune Issues, and Self-Regulation with Justine
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Oct 17, 2025 Justine Stull is an occupational therapist and a long-time member of the Heal with Nicole community, sharing her journey with chronic pain and migraines. She emphasizes that overcoming fear was the first step toward healing. Justine discusses powerful mind-body practices like JournalSpeak, which foster self-compassion and connection. She highlights daily habits for self-regulation, the importance of curiosity over fixing, and how community support accelerates healing. With practical tips, Justine inspires listeners to reframe their pain experiences.
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Lifelong Symptoms Reframed
- Justine traced symptoms from preschool UTIs to lifelong migraines and widespread body pain through adulthood.
- Discovering mind-body work led her to slow, steady symptom reduction and reclaim activities like skiing.
Family Patterns Fuel Anticipatory Fear
- Generational patterns shaped Justine's expectations that symptoms would worsen over time.
- That dread itself contributed to nervous-system activation and maintained suffering.
Use JournalSpeak With Compassion
- Practice JournalSpeak regularly; Justine practices about five days a week and credits it for progress.
- Use curiosity and compassion in writing instead of fear to change your relationship with symptoms.
