In this episode of 'Mind Your Body,' Dr. Zev Nevo explores the profound impact of chronic pain on relationships. He highlights how chronic pain can build an invisible wall between partners, creating a shared struggle where both individuals feel isolated. Dr. Nevo introduces a three-part series called 'Partners in Pain' aimed at addressing these challenges. Through personal anecdotes and insights from Brene Brown's research on empathy, sympathy, and compassion, Dr. Nevo distinguishes between responses that drive disconnection and those that foster connection. He discusses the multiple burdens carried by individuals with chronic pain, including the emotional labor of protecting their partners from discomfort. The episode underscores the importance of empathy over sympathy and sets the stage for learning practical empathy skills in future episodes.

00:00 Introduction: The Hidden Struggles of Chronic Pain

00:48 Welcome to Mind Your Body

01:11 The Invisible Burden on Partners

01:48 Understanding Co-Regulation and Neuroplasticity

02:35 Exploring Empathy vs. Sympathy

04:04 Sarah's Story: The Seven Layers of Suffering

06:13 The Partner's Perspective

09:31 Empathy Misses and Their Impact

13:51 The Power of Empathy

16:26 Conclusion and Next Steps

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This essential pre-roll message serves as a clear disclaimer, stating that the podcast provides pain and trauma-informed psychoeducation for informational and entertainment purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Listeners are reminded to always consult a qualified healthcare professional for specific medical conditions or symptoms.

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LINKS:

• Body and Mind Pain Center
• Mind Body Rehabilitation
• Substack