Living with chronic pain is challenging on even the best of days.

Whether you live with osteoarthritis, avascular necrosis, spondylosis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, or another bone, joint, or chronic pain condition, every day requires strength that many people never see.

Now add everything else.

Maybe you’re an advocate raising awareness. Perhaps you’re a volunteer, a Connect Group facilitator, a caregiver, or someone who speaks at events. Maybe you work part-time or full-time from home. You may be a wife, husband, mom, dad, grandparent, or a single parent trying to keep everything together.

That’s a lot.

When we’re passionate about helping others, it’s easy to spread ourselves too thin. We say “yes” because we care. We don’t want to disappoint people. We want to make a difference.

But eventually, we become exhausted, overwhelmed, and burned out.

I’ve been there.

The Emotional Side of Advocacy

Advocating for chronic pain and chronic illness awareness online can be one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. It can also be emotionally, physically, and mentally draining.

Every day we read stories of people who are hurting. We answer questions, offer encouragement, and try to give hope. Sometimes we travel to speak, facilitate support groups, or volunteer at events. While these experiences are meaningful, they also require energy that many of us simply don’t have to spare.

There have been many times when the weight of other people’s stories—combined with my own health challenges—felt overwhelming.

That’s when I remind myself that even advocates need support.

Don’t Keep It All Inside

One of the healthiest things you can do is talk to someone.

Whether it’s your spouse, a trusted family member, a close friend, another advocate who truly understands, or even a therapist, having someone who will simply listen can make all the difference.

There have been countless times when I’ve talked with my husband or another advocate after a difficult conversation or an emotional day.

Sometimes, just saying the words out loud lightens the load.

You quickly realize you’re not alone.

Learn to Set Boundaries

This has probably been one of the hardest lessons for me.

I used to spend far too much time scrolling social media. Before I knew it, an hour had disappeared.

Today, I’m much more intentional.

I post what I need to post, check a few messages, read a couple of updates from others, and then I move on.

I’ve cut my screen time nearly in half, and it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made for my mental health.

Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup; caring for yourself is also important if you plan on caring for others

Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you care less.

It means you’re protecting the energy you need to continue helping others tomorrow.

I also set specific times during the day to answer messages and respond to comments rather than feeling like I have to be available every minute.

It’s Okay to Say “Not Right Now”

Let’s be honest.

Managing social media, writing a blog, speaking at events, facilitating one or more support groups, volunteering, possibly working a job, taking care of your home, and managing a disability is a tremendous amount for anyone.

You don’t have to do everything.

It’s okay to say:

“I can’t right now.”

“Ask me again down the road.”

“I need to rest today.”

Those aren’t signs of weakness.

They’re signs of wisdom.

Taking care of yourself allows you to continue serving others for the long haul.

Remember, You’re Human Too

Those of us living with chronic pain often spend so much time encouraging everyone else that we forget to extend the same compassion to ourselves.

Rest when your body asks for it.

Take breaks.

Laugh.

Spend time with people who refill your cup.

And remember; you don’t have to carry every burden by yourself.

If you ever need someone to talk to, know there are people out there who care, who understand, and who will listen without judgment.

Take care of yourself first so you can continue making a difference in the lives of others.

Wishing each of you a very blessed day and, if possible, a pain-free one.