Pain Toolkit Feedback My Journey to Managing Arthritis at University with the Help of the Pain Toolkit

Pain Toolkit Feedback

My Journey to Managing Arthritis at University with the Help of the Pain Toolkit

Hi, I'm Sonya, a 20-year-old university student managing my arthritis. Balancing my studies and managing chronic pain has been quite a journey, but recently, I discovered the newer version of the Pain Toolkit which has been a game-changer in my pain management.  

I contacted Pete, the middle part of 2023 and was at my wits end. My arthritis was really affecting all parts of my life. Studying at the university and social life. I was fearing getting low grades. After chatting with Pete, he suggested I get the newer version of the Pain Toolkit.  He said I could contact him if I got stuck. I did a few times, but he put me right.

Here's how the five key self management toolkit skills has helped start to manage the arthritis more effectively.

Setting Goals and Action Plans: 

The Pain Toolkit has taught me the importance of setting goals and creating action plans. I've focused on setting achievable goals for my studies, ensuring I pace myself and take breaks before I needed. It has helped me stay motivated and track my progress, making university life more manageable.

Pacing Daily Activities: 

Learning to pace my daily activities has been a crucial skill I acquired from the Pain Toolkit. By breaking down tasks and managing my energy levels, I can avoid over-doing. This skill has allowed me to strike a balance between my academic commitments and taking care of my health.

Problem Solving: 

The Pain Toolkit has helped me with problem-solving skills to tackle obstacles I encounter while managing my arthritis. Whether it's finding accessible study spaces or adapting my study methods to accommodate my pain, I now have the tools to identify and address these challenges effectively.

Meaningful Movement: 

I had not heard of this term before and wondered what it meant, so I booked up to see a Physiotherapist, who explained what it was. I really liked the idea of me choosing what activities I like doing. I did try Yoga some years ago but never kept it up. The Physio showed some simple moves and its really helped me.

Despite my arthritis, the Pain Toolkit emphasised the importance of incorporating meaningful movement into my routine. By discovering exercises and stretches tailored to my condition, I can now maintain my overall fitness. Engaging in regular physical activity has not only improved my pain management but also boosted my energy levels and, confidence and mental well-being.

Dealing with Setbacks: 

I recognised myself in the Boom and Bust video as I am or was a frequent over-doer. The Pain Toolkit has taught me how to manage setbacks that arise from living with arthritis. It has helped me develop resilience and the ability to bounce back when faced with difficulties. By accepting setbacks as part of my journey and using the toolkit's strategies, I can stay focused on my studies and maintain a positive mindset.

In conclusion, the Pain Toolkit has been a lifeline for me as a young woman managing arthritis while attending university. Through its resources and the development of key self-management skills such as goal-setting, pacing activities, problem-solving, meaningful movement, and dealing with setbacks, I have experienced significant improvements in my pain levels and overall well-being. I am grateful for the support and guidance the Pain Toolkit has provided, making my university experience more manageable and enjoyable despite living with arthritis.