Pain Awareness Month

Pain Awareness Month brings together millions of people across America who suffer from chronic pain. Each September, healthcare professionals, psychologists, and patients unite to discuss the causes of pain and explore strategies for managing it. Pain is one of the most common health issues in the United States, but not everyone knows how to cope with it effectively. Pain Awareness Month aims to ease suffering and promote research into pain management.

History

Pain Awareness Month was established in 2001 by a coalition of organizations coordinated by the American Chronic Pain Association. Their goal was to educate the public about pain and foster greater understanding. To this end, the Partners for Understanding Pain alliance was formed. In 2002, a dinner was held to honor the occasion, and by 2003 the alliance had expanded to include more than 30 organizations. In 2004, a toolkit for patients with chronic pain and their families was released, and in 2005, another toolkit focusing on the roles of physicians and pharmacists in pain management was introduced.

Important Facts About Pain Awareness Month

• Supporting someone with chronic pain can help prevent their isolation and encourage participation in enjoyable activities.
• Chronic pain can cause sleep disturbances and insomnia.
• Statistically, women are more likely to experience chronic pain than men.
• Diet can play a significant role in either increasing or reducing pain.
• Sometimes pain is idiopathic, meaning it has no identifiable cause.

How to Take Part in Pain Awareness Month

Consider donating to pain research or volunteering to help people living with pain—let them know they are not alone. Use social media to discuss pain management techniques and encourage others to share their stories and tips for coping.

When is Pain Awareness Month in 2025?

Pain Awareness Month is observed on September 1 each year.

Observations