Pain Awareness Month: Shining Light on Chronic Pain and Compassion

Michele Roys
Sep 9
2 min read

Hi friend,

I trust you’ve been keeping well and that you enjoyed your summer.

Can you believe we’re already in September — almost ten days into it? This month is especially meaningful because September is Pain Awareness Month.

Why Pain Awareness Month Matters

Research shows that over one-third of adults in Ireland (≈35%) live with chronic pain. Across Europe, it’s estimated that 1 in 5 people — around 150 million individuals — are affected.

That’s huge. And yet for many of us, the pain is invisible.

I know all too well what it’s like to live in constant pain while looking “fine” on the outside. One of the hardest parts is when we’re brushed aside or not believed. A lack of understanding can hurt as much as the pain itself.

But here’s the truth: a little compassion goes a long way.

3 Small Ways to Support Someone with Chronic Pain

If you know someone living with chronic pain, here are a few simple but powerful ways to support them:

Believe them — when they share how they feel, resist the urge to question or minimize. Just listen.
Offer practical help — sometimes a meal, a lift, or even a thoughtful text can mean the world.
Be mindful of the unseen — remember that many struggles are invisible, so approach others with kindness and patience.

Self-Care Tips for Pain Warriors

And if you’re the one navigating chronic pain right now, here are gentle reminders I’ve learned along the way:

Pace yourself — your energy is precious; spend it wisely.
Let go of guilt — saying “no” is an act of self-preservation, not weakness.
Celebrate small wins — progress isn’t always loud or big, but it matters.

A Note of Gratitude

My friend, thank you for being part of my journey. Thank you for holding space for me, and for those around you. If each of us does our best to show we care, fewer people will feel alone.

I’d love to hear from you. How are you doing?

Do you know someone living with chronic pain? Please share this post with them so they know they’re not alone.

Thank you, my friend.

With love and prayers,

Michele

PS: Tune Into the Latest Podcasts

Since my last blog, I’ve shared four new podcast episodes — each one exploring resilience, health, and joy in the midst of challenge. I’d love for you to listen, and let me know where you’re tuning in from! Thank you.

The Next 90 Days: Reset, Reflect & Finish the Year Strong – Spotify | YouTube
Faith, Pain & Resilience: My Day at the Children’s Hospital with My Son – Spotify | YouTube
The Desert Rose - Finding Joy Faith & Resilience in Hard Places – Spotify | YouTube
I Am Worthy of Help – Why Asking Isn’t Weakness (with Adam May) – Spotify | YouTube

📚 References

Raftery MN, et al. “Chronic pain in the Republic of Ireland: results from the PRIME study.” J Pain. 2011;12(11):1368–1376.
Irish Pain Society, Pain Awareness Month 2025.
European Pain Federation (EFIC), “Access to Treatment” (2024).