Emotional Recovery After Injury: Surviving to Thriving

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Facing chronic pain or a severe injury can feel like navigating an endless maze of frustration and despair. Today's episode of Bed Back and Beyond brings a beacon of hope and actionable advice from Dr. Alan Weisser, a clinical psychologist and author of "New Possibilities: Unraveling the Mystery and Mastering Chronic Pain." After a neck injury at 12 changed his life forever, Dr. Weisser transitioned from a career as a trial lawyer to become a psychologist, dedicating his life to understanding and mastering chronic pain. His personal journey and profound insights offer a unique perspective on not just coping but thriving despite the challenges.
We unpack the emotional and psychological toll that accompanies significant injuries. Dr. Weiser sheds light on his own experiences with judo injuries and the subsequent struggle with neck and disc issues. He talks about the initial shock, the emotional rollercoaster, and the long path to recovery. We explore how personal histories and individual coping mechanisms shape responses to trauma, and discuss the guilt or shame that often surfaces when asking for help. Dr. Weiser emphasizes the vital role of self-awareness and community support in the healing journey, offering listeners a deep understanding of the emotional landscapes tied to physical injuries.
Dr. Weiser also discusses the often-overlooked psychological aspects of recovering from herniated disc surgery. He stresses the importance of communicating effectively with healthcare providers and shares techniques to mitigate the fear of re-injury, which can lead to physical deconditioning. The episode wraps up with an inspiring conversation on the importance of community and self-love in chronic pain management. The concept of creating an online support network akin to Alcoholics Anonymous is introduced, providing a structured and technological approach to help people manage their conditions more effectively. Don’t miss this episode packed with hope, encouragement, and practical strategies for anyone on the tumultuous journey of recovery.

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Chapters

1. Overcoming Chronic Pain and Injury (00:00:00)

2. Coping With Emotional Trauma and Injury (00:13:23)

3. Herniated Disc Recovery and Doctor Communication (00:22:33)

4. Chronic Pain Management and Coping (00:31:26)

5. Mastering Chronic Pain With Self-Love (00:38:30)

6. Creating Online Community for Chronic Pain (00:49:25)