The Emotions of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Coming to terms with a bad diagnosis, can be a constant struggle to stay positive.  It might take you far too long to even feel Heard by a physician to get a diagnosis.  Then it can be even longer to find your best treatment option.  As we realize that we ARE in a battle, we can stay focused on the worry of tomorrow or turn our focus on making the best Today.  Dealing with unbearable pain requires a multifaceted approach of physical relief, mental resilience, and spiritual anchoring.  

1. Physical relief can come in different forms to each individual.  I learned quickly that what works to bring pain relief to one person did not necessarily work for me.  If I heard another TN person saying the antiseizure medication that was life changing for them, I immediately asked my doctor to let me try it.  I would be so upset when it either did not relieve any pain, or the side effects were worse than the pain.  Other physical things such as ice packs, help me to numb my face for some relief.  Other people say that heat works better for them.  I also tried other physical approaches such as chiropractic and acupuncture and massage therapy.   Be willing to think outside the box of standard medicine to what helps you the most physically.  

2. Mental resilience is necessary to combat the negative assaults when living chronic and constant high levels of pain.  it helps break the cycle of negativity and fear.  It won't eliminate pain but shifts your relationship with it.  It can be very beneficial to work with psychologist in this type of resilience training.  It helps to keep you engaged and prevents the dangers that come with isolation chronic pain can lead to. Helping to maintain meaning and purpose in your life improves your mental health and combats depression. 

3. Anchoring our mind and spirit through Gods word can help take the focus off so much pain to awareness of God's presence with us.  

I turn a lot to the book of Psalms especially when I am overwhelmed and cannot find relief.  David teaches us that it is ok to lament our hurt and anger to God.  He already knows how we feel and he does not expect us to hide it from him.  As you continue reading through the psalms God reminds us of who he is, how much he cares, and how very present he is with us.