05: Understanding and Supporting Those Living with Chronic Pain and Illness with Daniela Paolone
Posted: September 11, 2020
Welcome! Today’s guest is Daniela Paolone, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who practices in Westlake Village, CA. Daniela specializes in supporting people living with chronic pain, illness, anxiety, and depression. Their unique challenges aren’t understood by those who haven’t experienced these issues. She’s here to deepen our understanding and awareness, because many of us have loved ones who are facing these challenges. I hope you’ll join us for this enlightening conversation with Daniela!
What you’ll hear in this episode:
- Daniela’s passion in wanting to support, acknowledge, and understand
- Chronic pain/illness are common for many
- Connection of mental health to chronic pain/illness
- The inability to do what you want to do in your life
- Chronic pain/illness—anxiety—depression: a vicious cycle
- The science and research behind illness
- Education, training, and nutrition can add support
- Daniela’s personal medical issues and pain
- Stages of grief
- The many areas of life impacted by pain/illness (& the loved ones affected!)
- Myths and misunderstandings about chronic pain/illness
- Best ways to support people with chronic pain/illness
- Negative self-talk and blame
- Care and compassion for others AND ourselves
- “I see you, I hear you, and I understand you.”
- Dialogue and negative thoughts
- How EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) can help
- Emotional pain below the physical pain
- The mind-body connection
- Compassion, understanding, and support for those in pain and how it resonates to others
- Daniela’s advice to someone suffering? “Find key supportive people who are listening.”
- Daniela recommends several websites and books that are helpful to those suffering with chronic pain and illness. See below!