Vocabulary
DEVELOPING A VOCABULARY TO TALK ABOUT 
PAIN
By describing WHAT and HOW you are feeling, you will notice that you do not always feel the same type of 
.
Try not to think about how long it has been since you felt your normal self or when you were able to do your usual activities without discomfort.
Using words that suggest that you have not succeeded in better managing or dealing with your condition, could increase your stress level, and make it even more challenging to make changes.
What PHYSICAL words can you use to describe WHAT you are feeling?
- Sharp
- Burning
- Cramping
- Shooting
- Throbbing
- Ache, etc.
What EMOTIONAL words can you use to describe HOW you are feeling?
- Worried
- Anxious
- Overwelcomed
- Fearful
- Discouraged
- Guilty, etc.
AND – are there OTHER words that would describe the sensations you are feeling?
- Dizzy/spinny
- Nauseous
- Forgetful
- Clumsy
- Sensitive to movement
- Bothered by noise
- Bothered by bright light
- Dysphagia (problems swallowing), etc.
By changing the way you describe and talk about pain and other you may notice that you are not always experiencing the same feeling. You may need to learn to respond to each of those feelings in a unique way.
And the way we dialogue with ourselves as well as with the people around us may have to change as well.
TRY NOT TO USE THESE WORDS and PHRASES
- Should
- Supposed to
- It’s only
- But
- Ought to
- Used to
- Sorry, etc.