Men’s Health Peer Education
HEALTH MANAGEMENT
Living with chronic disease or chronic pain (Tab 24)
Living with chronic disease or chronic
pain
Contents
Learning outcomes...................................................................................................... 3
Acknowledgments....................................................................................................... 4
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 5
Living with a chronic condition ................................................................................... 6
Managing your chronic illness .................................................................................... 6
Chronic pain ................................................................................................................ 8
Talking with a mate about chronic illness or pain .................................................... 10
Further information .................................................................................................. 11
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Men’s Health Peer Education
HEALTH MANAGEMENT
Living with chronic disease or chronic pain (Tab 24)
Living with chronic disease or chronic
pain
Learning outcomes
On completion of this module, and with further directed activities, MHPE
volunteers should be able to:
 list six diseases considered chronic in Australians
 suggest three sources of support for a veteran with chronic illness
 discuss key elements of successful management of chronic illness
 define chronic pain in simple terms
 discuss key elements of successful management of chronic pain.
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HEALTH MANAGEMENT
(Tab 24) Living with chronic disease or chronic pain
Men’s Health Peer Education
Acknowledgments
Information in this section has been obtained from the following sources:

Department of Health, Chronic Disease web pages 2012
DHA website
(www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/chronic)

Department of Veterans’ Affairs, MHPE Magazine, 11:1 Pain Management.
March 2012

Pain Australia website (www.painaustralia.org.au) 2015
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Living with chronic disease or chronic pain (Tab 24)
Men’s Health Peer Education
Introduction
‘Chronic diseases’ is a term that includes a wide cluster of conditions that are longlasting and usually not cured completely. They may also come on gradually, are
often influenced by lifestyle, genetic and other risk factors, and impair a person’s
day-to-day activities. Some can involve life-threatening events, such as heart attack
or stroke, while others may involve chronic pain. As more Australians are living
longer, larger numbers of people are living with chronic conditions.
There are many diseases that can be considered ‘chronic’. The Australian
Government has focused on eight conditions that cause significant levels of
hospitalisation, disability and death, and may be somewhat preventable. The
conditions are:

cardiovascular health

cancer control

mental health

obesity

diabetes mellitus

arthritis and musculoskeletal
conditions

asthma

injury prevention and control
One in three Australians have a chronic disease, the rate increasing with age. Half
of all people over 65 have two or more conditions. Australia has seen improvement
in the prevention and management of some conditions (heart attacks, cancer
survival, asthma in young people), but worsening rates in others (diabetes and
obesity).
Current and ex-members of the Australian Defence Forces have lower death rates
from some major risk factors, but veterans tend to have more long-term mental
health problems and self-report more chronic physical health problems. The MHPE
health promotion message aims to reduce the likelihood of veterans developing
some of these conditions, or being able to manage them better if present.
Chronic diseases can be accompanied by ongoing pain, disability and tiredness that
can lead to frustration and sometimes increase risk of depression. Some men slow
down or stop doing their routine tasks or activities, which in turn may lead to
further disability.
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HEALTH MANAGEMENT
(Tab 24) Living with chronic disease or chronic pain
Men’s Health Peer Education
Living with a chronic condition
Living with a chronic condition can be a challenge—but you are still in control of
your life. Being able to ‘self-manage’ a chronic condition, in partnership with health
professionals, family, friends and carers, can minimise the severity of your
symptoms and improve your quality of life.
The role of appropriate health professionals (GPs, specialists, physiotherapists,
counsellors etc.) is very important in managing any chronic health condition.
Self-management is about taking an active role in managing any longterm health condition. Self-management is not about going it alone.
Managing your chronic illness
Learn all you can about your condition
The more you know about your condition, the greater your sense of comfort and
control. This includes learning about your treatment and management options and
possible medications, and how to best manage your symptoms. Start with your
doctor and an organisation that specialises in your illness, rather than roaming the
internet without some initial knowledge; while there are many helpful websites,
there are also plenty of sensationalist stories and treatments aimed at vulnerable
people.
Talk about your condition
Family and friends may be your best source of support, and the more they are
involved and understand your condition the more supportive they can be. Be
honest about your feelings and concerns with them, and with the health
professionals you deal with. Many men find it useful to talk to someone who has
been through the same thing, just as it is often easier to talk about military service
with a mate who has had similar experiences. Most organisations who deal with
your condition will offer opportunities to talk with others who have been down
your path—through talks, peer support programs, chatting online or by phone, or
community activities. Perhaps you will be someone else’s support person down the
track!
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Living with chronic disease or chronic pain (Tab 24)
Build relationships with your health specialists
You are likely to have one or more medical specialists for your condition(s). Let
them know as much as you can about yourself and your hopes and concerns. Their
time may be limited, so make a list before every visit of all the things you want to
ask or talk about. They will appreciate your preparation and interest. The same
applies to nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians, counsellors and others you may need
to see. Most importantly, stay in touch with your GP for continuity about any other
health issues you want to discuss.
Stay well
Maintain your exercise, eat and sleep well, stay connected and have some time out
for fun. The health promotion message does not change with chronic illness;
indeed, it is even more important. You may need to modify your diet or exercise
regime, but do that with the best advice, and make the changes in a way that lets
you get the most out of every day.
Manage the challenges chronic illness presents
Chronic conditions usually require adjustment to some aspects of living. This
change can affect work and relationships, but more commonly the challenge will be
the physical, psychological or emotional responses to the condition. Many men
have found that dealing effectively with common issues, such as stress, fatigue and
frustration, in turn helps manage the condition itself. Those men have often coped
better by learning and practising relaxation and symptom management techniques
and problem-solving skills, or undertaking a chronic illness self-management
course. You can find these options through VVCS, your GP, chronic illness
associations or local community health services.
You are still you, now living with an illness like many others. You are
not defined by your illness, not ‘I am a diabetic’ (or whatever your
condition may be). ‘I am Barry. I am a proud veteran. I am a loving
father and husband. I am a keen cyclist. I am the barbecue king! I
have diabetes.’
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HEALTH MANAGEMENT
(Tab 24) Living with chronic disease or chronic pain
Men’s Health Peer Education
Chronic pain
Chronic pain has a variety of definitions, one being that it occurs most days of the
week for at least three months. Chronic pain is different for each person who
experiences it, and so the best management is that tailored to the person’s age,
condition and lifestyle.
One in five Australian adults has chronic pain, with increasing likelihood as we age.
Veterans may be at increased risk because of musculoskeletal problems related to
military service, or due to mental health problems that can make pain management
more complex. There is evidence that men are less likely to ask for help with health
problems; it is not ‘weak’ to ask for help with chronic pain. What would you tell a
mate in pain? ‘She’ll be right!’, or ‘Is there something I can do to help?’
Ignoring the pain will not make it go away. Men who take responsibility
for the management of their pain are more likely to be able to lead a
productive and satisfying life.
How best to live with chronic pain
Living with pain can be difficult. Men who experience chronic pain often share
some common responses. Initially they may put up with it, or seek complete
answers and treatment options to ‘cure’ the pain. At some point it will become
clear that the pain will be ongoing; a ‘miracle’ cure is unlikely. The challenge now is
to accept that pain will be part of your life, but that living well is the focus, not the
pain.
Look for, ask for and accept help from health professionals
You are already likely to have spoken with your GP about the pain, and your doctor
is an important part of ongoing pain management. You may be asked to keep a
pain diary to help identify when the pain occurs, about possible triggers, what the
pain feels like and what helps to relieve it (or makes it worse). Be frank with, and
ask questions of, your doctor. You may need referrals to specialist doctors, other
professionals or clinics, prescriptions for pain medicines or early identification of
other health issues. Importantly you need the opportunity to talk with a health
professional who understands the complex and unique medical issue that is your
chronic pain.
Look for, ask for and accept help from others
If they know of and appreciate the impact of pain on your life, family and friends
can make little adjustments that allow you to stay engaged with them as normally
as possible. Be honest. The more they learn about your condition, and supportively
encourage you to be as involved as possible, the better. They may notice things like
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Living with chronic disease or chronic pain (Tab 24)
mood changes before you do, if they know what to look for, so that you can
address issues earlier. Let mates know if you need to slow down a little. But if
friends and family treat you as an invalid, you can end up stuck in that role. Make it
clear you are not an invalid; let them know of the things you can do.
Don’t just think of pain as a physical problem
Some of the most effective ways of managing chronic pain involve the mind, not
the body. Relaxation techniques, distraction therapies, cognitive behaviour therapy
(thinking and coping skills), meditation, imagery, yoga, and biofeedback may not be
familiar terms, but all of these and many more have proven helpful to many men
with chronic pain. While you can find information on the internet or at the library,
the best option is to talk to you doctor, who knows you and understands your pain,
and to seek a referral to a psychologist, occupational therapist or counsellor who
has a wide range of options to offer.
Learn about and use your medicines correctly
In most cases where medicines for chronic pain are used, they work best when
taken regularly, rather than only when the pain gets worse. Sometimes people
worry about getting addicted to analgesics (‘painkillers’), but as you learn about
your medicine and speak to health professionals, you will understand this is a myth
(most addiction with these drugs occurs when people take them recreationally or
incorrectly). Be careful of self-medication; alcohol and other drugs can ‘numb’ the
pain somewhat, but may also add a new problem.
Stay healthy
The importance of regular exercise, good eating, sound sleep and social
participation is magnified when dealing with chronic pain. Mental health issues can
arise more readily, sleep problems are common, and pain can make existing
exercise patterns difficult, leading to weight gain and other physical health
problems. Talk to your doctor, speak to a physiotherapist, involve your partner and
others, and make adjustments. Above all, do not avoid activities and exercise;
rather learn about your limits, take more breaks or don’t go quite as fast. Pace
yourself! Golf too hard? Try some water-based exercise!
Attend a pain clinic
For some men with chronic pain, referral to a pain specialist (doctor) or a pain clinic
is an important step, especially if the GP approach is not enough. At the clinic you
will meet a range of health professionals, and they will look at all the issues above
(and many others) to create a unique pain management plan for you. They do not
manage your pain however; they will provide education and strategies to enhance
your ability to manage your own pain. Ultimately, you will do the best you can
when you take responsibility for your pain.
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HEALTH MANAGEMENT
(Tab 24) Living with chronic disease or chronic pain
Men’s Health Peer Education
Live life
Live life with all its ups and downs. Set goals and priorities (small steps first), try
things, fail sometimes, reward yourself when you succeed, make choices, have a
go. Chronic pain is but one aspect of your life; enjoy all the other parts and share
the pleasure with family and mates.
Pace yourself.
Talking with a mate about chronic illness or pain
The greatest challenge for many men with chronic conditions is communication:
how much; to whom; what about the emotional and psychological elements? ‘Am I
just whingeing?’ Sometimes this indecision means a bloke won’t talk, and in other
cases he may find it hard to stop.
Every person with chronic health issues is an individual, and this is your guide to
discussion. Peter is still Peter, your old friend, who now has chronic back pain and
multiple sclerosis. The shared experiences of decades ago, and the things that you
laughed about in the past, are just as relevant. So treat Peter the same as you
always have. Ask him how he is; if he says ‘ok’, and you’re not sure, follow up with
‘are you really?’ It never hurts to ask.
On the other hand, if Peter won’t stop talking about his problems, and you are in a
hurry, don’t be afraid to say ‘Mate, I can see you want to talk about this. Can we
make a time tomorrow when I can chat for longer?’ And see him tomorrow. And if
he sounds like a broken record, and you have heard the same story every time you
meet, tell him of your frustration and ask him if there is a way to move on. If he
can’t find that path, this might be the best time to suggest he talks to a relevant
health professional. As a MHPE volunteer, you are not working as a trained
counsellor, and an important action is to encourage him to seek the right help.
But the best thing you can do for Peter is to stay in touch. Chronic illness and
chronic pain leave a lot of relationships behind, and for many men it results in a
series of losses in their life. Tell the bad jokes that always made Peter groan, and
when he is getting too down and introspective, use your shared experience to
remind him you are both enjoying one another’s company, now. Stay engaged with
him, do things he can do, at his pace. He will have plenty of time to feel sorry for
himself, if that is what he chooses to do. Your being with him is about the pleasure
of companionship, as it always has been.
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HEALTH MANAGEMENT
Living with chronic disease or chronic pain (Tab 24)
Further information
Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service
VVCS provides counselling and group programs to eligible members of the exservice community and their families. They have staff experienced in working with
veterans to help manage chronic pain, including a group program.
VVCS website (www.vvcs.gov.au) or 1800 011 046
Veterans’ MATES
This innovative DVA program provides current health and medicine information for
health professionals and veterans on a range of conditions and medicines, such as
diabetes, warfarin, insomnia, heart failure, falls, gout and medicines reviews.
Veterans’ MATES website (www.veteransmates.net.au)
Pain Management Network
An interactive, educational website for anyone living with (or treating) chronic pain.
Modules cover practical issues such as medications, sleep and lifestyle issues.
Pain Management Network website (www.aci.health.nsw.gov.au/chronic-pain)
Chronic Pain questions
A substantial list of frequently asked questions (from NSW Health).
NSW Health website
(www.health.nsw.gov.au/pharmaceutical/patients/Pages/faq-chronic-painconsumers.aspx)
Apps
There are hundreds of chronic illness/pain apps available for tablets and
smartphones. Many have little evidence of health professional involvement and/or
a sound testing and evidence base underpinning their development. That is not to
say they aren’t useful. MHPE recommends that you download any of interest and
discuss their use to monitor, manage and report your illness or pain with your
doctor, who is in the best position to recommend appropriate use for your
circumstance.
Organisations that focus on chronic illness and pain in
Australia
Arthritis Australia
Phone 1800 111 101
Website (www.arthritisaustralia.com.au)
Asthma Australia
Phone 1800 278 462
Website (www.asthmaaustralia.org.au)
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HEALTH MANAGEMENT
(Tab 24) Living with chronic disease or chronic pain
Men’s Health Peer Education
Australian Pain Management Association
Website (www.painmanagement.org.au)
Beyondblue
Phone 1300 22 4636
Website (www.beyondblue.org.au)
Chronic Illness Alliance
Phone 03 8809 0641
Website (www.chronicillness.org.au)
Chronic Pain Australia
Website (www.chronicpainaustralia.org.au)
Diabetes Australia
Phone 1300 136 588
Website (www.diabetesaustralia.com.au)
Headache Australia
Phone 1300 886 660
Website (www.headacheaustralia.org.au)
Heart Foundation
Phone 1300 362 787
Website (www.heartfoundation.com.au)
Lung Foundation Australia
Phone 1800 654 301
Website (www.lungfoundation.com.au)
Osteoporosis Australia
Phone 1800 242 141
Website (www.osteoporosis.org.au)
Painaustralia
Phone 1300 340 357
Website (www.painaustralia.org.au)
Vision Australia
Phone 1300 847 466
Website (www.visionaustralia.org.au)
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