March 29, 2024

Since 2001, the impact of pain on the nation’s wellness has been marked by Pain Awareness Month each September. According to a 2019 study by the CDC, one-fifth of American adults live with chronic pain. It also found that the percentage of adults with chronic pain and high-impact chronic pain increased as place of residence became more rural. Additionally, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that about 10 percent of people using an opioid for chronic pain develop an opioid use disorder.

“As we mark the 2021 Pain Awareness Month, we encourage Mainers to use Healthy Living for ME’s free and low-cost resources to help them manage their ongoing pain and related conditions. Our workshops and other resources treat the whole person, so the people we serve are able to create healthy habits and improve their overall wellness, both physically and emotionally,” said Kristin Overton, chief strategy officer of Healthy Living for ME. 

Participants have reported positive results from Healthy Living for Maine’s chronic pain workshops, noting that the workshops have helped them to return to favorite hobbies and activities, to gain confidence in managing their persistent pain, and to improve in self-advocacy.

Healthy Living for ME recognizes September as Pain Awareness Month