You’re Not Alone
Support groups can provide a wealth of knowledge and experience for those seeking solutions and options in the management of their pain.
The Pain Connection is a division of the U.S. Pain Foundation is dedicated to empowering people with chronic pain to improve their quality of life, decrease their sense of isolation, and take a more active role in their treatment. They do this by offering a national network of groups with an emphasis on evidence-based education, services for clinicians, educational resources and events, and much more.
They provide national , state-based and specialized groups. At present, these are all online support groups provided through the Zoom platform. All are provided free of charge.
State-based Support GroupsAll Pain Connection support groups leaders have gone through our training program, where they learn to guide productive, compassionate discussions amongst participants. Additionally, they received training in helpful techniques, including meditation, breathing exercises, guided imagery, decision-making models, role-playing, assertiveness skills, and more. Comfort during group is critical and the Pain Connection groups conduct their meetings with your comfort in mind. So, they do whatever possible to accommodate your physical needs. For example, you should feel free to lie down during groups. We encourage you to bring pillows, mats, ice or hot packs—whatever helps keep you comfortable. Also, you can come as often or as little as you like. All discussions in the groups are confidential. If you have questions about our support groups, or are interested in starting one in your area, please reach out at info@painconnection.org. |
National Support GroupsChronic pain can make it difficult to leave the house, even when you need support and community. So, they offer weekly groups held via Zoom videoconference. These groups are available to anyone with chronic pain at no charge! The meetings involve guided discussion led by individuals who have received specialized support group training from Gwenn Herman, LCSW, DCSW. Group leaders all have personal experience with living with pain. Chronic pain group meetings typically relate to a monthly theme or topic; you can read more about this month’s theme above. Registration is required via the calendar. Once you complete registration, you’ll receive an email confirmation with details about how to join. |
Specialized Support GroupsWithin the chronic pain community, specific populations face unique challenges as they navigate their, or their loved ones’, health conditions. Pain Connection currently provides tailored chronic pain support groups for veterans and active military, caregivers, and LGBTQ+ individuals. We hope to continue to expand the special populations served. Registration is required via the calendar. Once you complete registration, you’ll receive an email confirmation with details about how to join. |