The Grief of the Chronic Pain Patient

Individuals with chronic pain may lack awareness that they are feeling grief. People who suffer from chronic pain may experience losses in several areas: comfort, sexual function, career, income, self-efficacy, cognitive function, intimacy, pride, joy, self-esteem, self-control, independence, mental health, hope, dignity, and certainty. Providers may overlook these patients biggest loss: themselves. How can clinicians help?