In 2015, I attended the Cleveland Clinic chronic rehabilitation program. We did some group therapy and when I introduced myself to the group, I introduced myself as a patient and not a person. Up to that point I didn't realize I was letting my diagnosis be my identity until the doctor pointed it out. The light bulb came on and sparked the journey to find who I really am. I was so wrapped up in my illness, I had lost my purpose. #therapy #purpose I knew that laying in bed o

In chapter 2 of my book, "Chronic Pain Hacker", I talk about radical acceptance and how to use it to reduce suffering and increase joy in your life. #chronicpainhacker Expectations play a big role in chronic pain management. Unrealistic expectations can lead to anxiety, grief, and depression when the "miracle cure" doesn't come to fruition. Suffering is increased, when expectations are not met. A wise therapist from my Dialectical Behavior Therapy #dbt class gave me this form