Trigeminal Neuralgia
Psychological Treatment
Some people refer to trigeminal neuralgia (TN) as “the world’s worst pain.” TN can cause great distress for many reasons. People with TN may avoid or limit normal daily activities such as eating, drinking, shaving and even smiling for fear that these may trigger pain. Lack of sleep and being unable to eat can affect your ability to focus, work or be active. Avoiding regular social time or dinner with your friends (to keep from triggering pain) can make you feel isolated. Certain friends or family may not understand your suffering because you do not look sick.
TN may cause you to feel depressed, fearful, anxious, guilty or angry. In time, these feelings can become as much of a problem as your TN pain and may even cause your pain to worsen. The following are a few suggestions for keeping your mind and emotions healthy:
TN may cause you to feel depressed, fearful, anxious, guilty or angry. In time, these feelings can become as much of a problem as your TN pain and may even cause your pain to worsen. The following are a few suggestions for keeping your mind and emotions healthy:
- Find a support group – Talking to other people with TN can help you feel less alone with your pain. It is also an opportunity to learn what other people with TN do to cope with their pain. The NPF web site has many resources for you. Write a story, read others’ stories and chat with people who live with TN. If you prefer face-to-face conversations, ask your health care provider to help you find a support group in your town. Click here for NPF’s patient stories and online support group.
- Try complementary therapies – Behavioral techniques may help you cope with your pain and anxiety or depression. Behavioral techniques include meditation, biofeedback (relaxation) and counseling.
- Get help if you are very depressed – Make an appointment with a counselor to talk about your feelings and pain or click here for help.