Talking to Those in Pain: Empathy vs Sympathy

Those with chronic pain often elicit considerable sympathy. Unknowingly, most sympathizers come from a place of judgment and pity, contributing to helplessness and immobilization in the person with pain. Empathy, on the other hand, is climbing into the pit with the broken and being there with them. Not trying to fix them or give them solutions, but instead actively listening to understand their perspective. Pain management coaching pioneer Becky Curtis shares what she’s learned from personal experience, and as a health coach.