Sometimes, it's best to just feel it. I know what it's like to fight both mental & physical battles & it's absolutely horrible when it's both fronts at once. Do distractions help you? I try my best to get engrossed in a book or a movie or something. Sometimes I'll find someone to talk to. Or, since I write I just spill it all out on paper. How you should feel is how you're feeling. It's frustrating & takes a toll on one's spirit, & although it sucks, acknowledging it & maybe even honoring it or embracing it in a way (usually creatively, turning the pain into something else) can help. When one's focus is grabbed by all of the health battles it can be hard to do anything else. I understand that too. Bottling it all up or trying to mask it unfortunately only makes it all that much worse. I think you're doing the best thing by venting it out here. I hope all goes well with your MRI & your new therapist.

My therapist gave me a list that looks a lot like this. I try to name my feelings once a day. It’s really helped me be aware of them. Realizing what I feel really helps me process things more quickly. Best of luck <3 http://www.psychpage.com/learning/library/assess/feelings.html

I'm sorry PPW. All I can do in these moments is hide - usually behind a book or in a video game, with help of prn.
*support*

Tell you how to feel, how to act and which mask to wear?

I'd sooner tell Michelangelo which way to point that finger on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Can't I *just* look up and admire the artistry?

Hope you find your relief soon, PPW.

Maybe..... Anxiety (over the new therapist) could be making your sleep worse, which makes the pain worse, which makes the sleep worse...ie vicious cycle.


It's good to remember that "mind-body" goes "body-mind" too.

Anxiety is so extra hard because it can make doing all of the coping methods that much harder.

So...no advice...just hoping that you're extra good to yourself.

I care, Patti

Hope the MRI today goes well, pp. I have back pain, too, two herniated disks. It's no joke. Let us know if the MRI shows anything that they can help you with, ok? And may your first appointment with your new therapist bring new hope.

I’m hoping that you begin to have a break from this pain and what you’re going through. We’re here with you and you’re not alone. Much peace and support.

I hope the mri offered insight on the cause of your physical pain. As for the inside, emotional pain can be so hard. Perhaps it is due to some anxiety about your back? Physical pain can cause so much stress, enhancing emotional pain. Journaling may help to let those emotions out. If physical therapy is ordered, that, too can be an outlet. Prayers for peace, strength, and healing.