Support Resources for People Living with Chronic Pain
A guide to help you find community, information, and 24/7 support
Why Support Matters
Living with chronic pain can feel isolating.
Connecting with others and knowing where to turn for help can:
- Reduce stress and loneliness
- Provide coping strategies and practical tips
- Offer emotional support and crisis help when needed
📞 National Helplines (U.S.)
Resource |
Phone |
What They Offer |
|
SAMHSA National Helpline |
1-800-662-HELP (4357) |
24/7 free, confidential help for mental health or substance use concerns. |
|
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline |
988 |
24/7 support for anyone in emotional distress or suicidal crisis. Can also send a text message to 988 |
|
U.S. Pain Foundation |
1-800-910-2462 |
Information and guidance for people with chronic pain and their families. |
|
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline |
1-800-950-NAMI (6264) |
Support and information on mental health and coping with chronic illness. Can also text NAMI to 62640 or email helpline@nami.org |
|
Eldercare Locator |
1-800-677-1116 |
Connects older adults and caregivers with local services (transportation, meals, etc.). Can also send a text message to the number listed or chat online with trained staff from the link on their website at: https://eldercare.acl.gov/home |
🌐 Online & Peer Support Groups
- U.S. Pain Foundation Support Groups – Virtual groups and in-person events: uspainfoundation.org
- American Chronic Pain Association (ACPA) – Peer-led groups, coping tools, and pain management classes: https://www.acpanow.com/#/
- Pain Connection (part of U.S. Pain Foundation) – Free support groups, including groups for veterans and caregivers: https://painconnection.org/
- Chronic Pain Anonymous (CPA) – 12-step support for people living with chronic pain: chronicpainanonymous.org
- PatientsLikeMe – Online community for sharing experiences and tracking symptoms: patientslikeme.com
🧩 Additional Resources
- Hospital- or clinic-based support groups – Ask your care team for local options.
- Faith-based or community centers – Many host free groups for people with chronic illness.
- Local Area Agency on Aging – Can connect you to senior-friendly exercise, meal, and support programs.
Tips for Using Support Resources
- Start with what feels comfortable—you can join a group online or by phone.
- Bring a friend or caregiver if trying an in-person group for the first time.
- Set goals (e.g., learn a new coping skill, meet others with similar pain conditions).
- Stay safe: Only share personal information you are comfortable with.
Key Takeaways
- You are not alone—help and understanding are always available.
- Support groups and helplines can offer comfort, education, and practical solutions.
- Combining medical care with emotional support can make living with chronic pain more manageable.
This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.