Coping strategies are vital for individuals to manage their emotions and stress in response to

a challenging situation and commonly include problem-solving, seeking public support, and

positive self-talk. These approaches are instrumental in managing chronic pain, as they assist

individuals in managing the physical and emotional challenges associated with the condition.

This video discusses the coping strategies employed by patients with chronic pain, which

include seeking support from loved ones and engaging in enjoyable activities while practicing

positive self-talk. “Family caregivers play a significant role in the health care system in

emotional, practical, and economic terms.” (Drench et al., 2012, p. 102).

Individuals with chronic pain experience pain daily for long periods, which can be

discouraging and difficult to cope with. To overcome this, patients emphasize the importance

of maintaining a positive outlook and accepting their situation. They distinguish between

discouragement and empowerment, where the former entails negative feelings such as

hopelessness and helplessness while the latter includes positive sentiments like feeling in

control and hopeful. Empowerment is particularly useful in managing chronic pain as it

encourages individuals to feel more positive about their situation and cope better.

The patients also acknowledge the need for discipline, including following a strict medication

regimen, a healthy diet, and participating in therapy. Following strict discipline is essential in
managing chronic pain and may involve taking medication as prescribed, participating in

treatment, and following a healthy diet. Additionally, patients stress the importance of being

empowered and taking control of their care.

Chronic pain patients also discuss the uncertainty of future pain experiences and the need for

supportive and understanding health professionals. As chronic pain is often unpredictable, the

uncertainty can be disheartening. Supportive and sympathetic health professionals can

provide patients with the resources and support they need to cope better with the condition.

Overall, understanding the coping strategies employed by individuals with chronic pain is

crucial in helping them manage their condition. These strategies include seeking support from
loved ones, engaging in enjoyable activities, practicing positive self-talk, following strict

discipline, being empowered, and receiving support from understanding health professionals.

References: Drench, M. E., Noonan, A. C., Sharby, N., & Ventura, S. H. (2012).

Psychosocial aspects of healthcare (Third edition). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.