November marks Veteran’s Week and National Pain Awareness Week, providing a poignant opportunity to raise awareness about the chronic pain experienced by many veterans. As we honor those who have served in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), it’s crucial to recognize the unique challenges faced by veterans living with chronic pain—a condition affecting roughly 20% of Canadians.
Chronic pain is complex, intertwining physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and environmental factors. It’s pain that persists beyond the normal healing period—typically longer than three to six months—or pain that recurs. For many, it’s not just a physical ailment; it can lead to feelings of sadness, anxiety, stress, and a sense of loss of control. Unfortunately, stigma often accompanies these struggles, making it even harder to seek help.
Dr. Ramesh Zacharias, President, CEO, and Medical Director of The Chronic Pain Centre of Excellence for Canadian Veterans, emphasizes the unique challenges faced by veterans: “From my experience treating veterans and civilians with chronic pain, I’ve learned that veterans have unique challenges with chronic pain. You need to address both the physical and mental trauma, like PTSD and other forms of mental illness, to truly help them manage their pain.”
As we approach Remembrance Day, it’s vital to take a moment to reflect on our veterans and their families. Many have returned from service not just with physical injuries but also with the emotional and psychological scars of their experiences. Chronic pain can be a silent companion, impacting their daily lives, relationships, and overall well-being. Let’s never forget the struggles many face when they return home. Together, we can create supportive communities that acknowledge and understand the healing journeys of our veterans.
(Ref: Remembrance – Veterans Affairs Canada)
