A Sheffield café that helps women deal with chronic pain has seen a surge in popularity since it was formed six months ago.
The Women’s Chronic Pain Café takes place at Burngreave Vestry Hall and helps women deal with persistent pain cycles and ways to break it.
The Chronic Pain Groups are run by SOAR, a community regeneration charity that provides services to improve people’s health, well-being, and employability.
Natasha Kistnen, Wellbeing coach, said: “Up to 30 women come to our weekly sessions, and we often see tears as some women feel very isolated. However, it’s a great way for people to exchange numbers and feel less alone. Our sessions include interpreters and create a community that provides support for those who need it most.”
SOAR is organising a women’s health event in June to raise awareness for the 40% of UK population suffering from chronic pain.
She added: “We are noticing that an increasing number of individuals are feeling disconnected from their social groups and communities, so bringing people together is a brilliant idea. People are seeking to reconnect with their former selves and the aspirations they once had.”
The chronic pain support groups often host visits from doctors, physical therapists, and representatives from Compassionate Sheffield as more NHS professionals are recognising the debilitating effects of chronic pain.
Emma Smith, 48, has been diagnosed with chronic pain as she suffers from persistent idiopathic facial pain.
She said: “It’s a vicious cycle. The lower your mood, the harder it is to tolerate pain. Chronic pain is often ignored and dismissed. The idea of going anywhere other than the local supermarket scares me.”
“I’m desperate to return to my job, which I love, but I’m struggling to properly care for my kids at the moment.”
A significant number of patients with chronic pain are misdiagnosed with mental health conditions and offered antidepressants instead of exploring the root cause of their pain.
Phoebe Allen, 31, a sufferer of chronic urinary tract infections, said: “This disease needs to be taken seriously. It’s wrecking marriages, relationships, and lives.”
There is a hidden epidemic of chronic pain with some guidelines being over 70 years old and relying on outdated tests that can be unreliable.
She added: “My advice would be to understand what you have been through is trauma but surrounding yourself with supportive people will carry you through it.”
SOAR is looking to open additional support groups in Parson Cross due to their popularity.
For mental health assistance or resources regarding chronic pain, you can find further information at https://www.soarcommunity.org.uk/
