How do people deal with pain when they are anxious?

[julieannboo]

I have got back pain at the moment. It is all i think about.
Very stiff in the morning.
I have got a problem with my feet, inflammation on the soles, so i am wondering if this is throwing my gait out of balance. As i am walking funny due to the foot pain.

Anyway i am not coping well with the pain at the moment.

Any tips for coping with pain when you are anxious and depressed?

Thanks!

[vicky23]

Hi, sorry to hear you've been in pain. I have a tendancy to panic when pain comes which leads to more awareness of the pain and the cycle continues. So far me a lot of my coping strategies are about reducing anxiety levels. Here are some of the things I find a comfort:

Positive self talk, become aware of the negative thoughts you're running through your head, write them down and counter the with more positive statements.
so for example...
''I can't cope'' ''this is horrible'' will keep you in a cycle of stress and pain. Try statements like ''I can get through this, the feelings will pass, pain is temporary, there are good things in life''
Maybe google inspirational quotes for some more ideas

Drinking chamomile tea which is noted for being good for nerves

Relaxing essential oils like lavender and neroli can be used in the bath or mixed in with a carrier oil to give massage with

Music that you find relaxing or uplifting

Rest, don't feel guilty for taking time out to recover.