Pain Awareness: Understanding, Supporting, and Finding Relief

Every September, health organizations and advocates across the country observe Pain Awareness Month to highlight the realities of chronic pain and its impact on millions of lives. Chronic pain is one of the most prevalent and costly health conditions in the United States, yet it is often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and undertreated. By shining a light on lived experiences and evidence-based care, this month invites us to educate, build empathy, and connect people with resources that can help them find relief and live fuller lives.

What is Pain Awareness Month?

Pain Awareness Month was established in 2001 by the American Chronic Pain Association in partnership with more than 80 organizations, with the shared goal of increasing awareness and improving treatment for those living with pain. Now, nearly 25 years later, the campaign continues to bring together healthcare professionals, patients, caregivers, and community leaders to address the physical, emotional, and social dimensions of pain.

Chronic pain is typically defined as pain lasting more than three months, and it can stem from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, cancer, migraines, back problems, nerve damage, and many autoimmune diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 51 million adults in the United States—about 20% of the population—live with chronic pain, and nearly 17 million experience high-impact chronic pain, meaning it frequently limits their daily activities.

These numbers highlight just how common and life-altering pain can be. Pain Awareness Month seeks not only to educate the public but also to encourage compassionate dialogue and advocate for better resources, treatment options, and access to care.

Why Pain Awareness Matters

Chronic pain is often called an “invisible illness” because it cannot always be seen or measured, and yet it profoundly affects a person’s quality of life. Beyond the physical discomfort, ongoing pain can lead to depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, social isolation, and economic hardship. The National Institutes of Health estimates that chronic pain costs the U.S. over $600 billion annually in medical treatment and lost productivity.

Despite its widespread impact, people living with chronic pain may feel dismissed, misunderstood, or stigmatized. Some struggle to get accurate diagnoses or timely treatment. Others may face barriers in accessing therapies, especially in rural areas or communities with limited healthcare resources.

Raising awareness combats these challenges by:

• Reducing stigma: Promoting understanding that chronic pain is real, complex, and deserving of care.

• Encouraging advocacy: Supporting initiatives that expand access to pain management services.

• Fostering empathy: Reminding us all that behind the statistics are individuals—neighbors, coworkers, and family members—whose lives are directly impacted.

How We Can Help

Supporting people with chronic pain requires both community involvement and individual action. Here are some ways we can all contribute during Pain Awareness Month and beyond:

• Educate Yourself and Others
  Learn about chronic pain conditions, treatments, and the challenges patients face. Trusted sources include the American Chronic Pain Association, CDC, and National Institutes of Health. Share what you learn with friends, family, or colleagues to broaden understanding.
   

• Encourage Compassionate Listening
  Sometimes the most meaningful support is simply listening without judgment. Let those experiencing pain know their struggles are valid and that they are not alone.
   

• Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices
  Encourage practices that can help manage pain, such as gentle exercise, mindfulness, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep. While these are not cures, they can complement medical care and improve well-being.
   

• Support Policy and Advocacy Efforts
  Stay informed about legislation and initiatives that expand access to pain management services and advocate for comprehensive care models that address both physical and mental health.
   

• Connect with Resources
  Pain management is not one-size-fits-all. Multidisciplinary care—bringing together medical providers, behavioral health professionals, and physical therapists—can be especially effective.

Resources and Support

This September, Pain Awareness Month reminds us that no one should have to navigate the challenges of chronic pain alone. For those living with chronic pain in our community, support and relief are within reach. At North Star Health Alliance, we provide resources and compassionate care to help individuals manage pain and improve their quality of life. Our team understands the physical, emotional, and social toll that pain can take, and we are committed to offering patient-centered solutions tailored to each individual’s needs.

Whether you are seeking medical evaluation, pain management strategies, or referrals to trusted specialists, North Star Health Alliance is here to help guide your journey. Give us a call to start your pain management journey today at Carthage Area Hospital, 315-493-1000 or Claxton-Hepburn Medical Campus, 315-393-3600.