Living Well with Back Pain
Social Connection — Don't Let Pain Isolate You
One of the greatest risks of chronic low back pain is social isolation.
- Pain leads to avoiding outings → Fewer interactions → Mood drops → Pain worsens → Even less desire to go out...
To break this cycle:
| Strategy | How |
|---|---|
| Schedule regular outings | Commit to at least one social activity per week — a meal with a friend, a community group, a hobby class |
| Start small | If long outings are difficult, aim for just 30 minutes |
| Communicate openly | Let trusted friends or family know about your situation. Most people want to help if they understand |
| Join a group or class | Gentle exercise groups, walking clubs, volunteer organizations, or faith communities can all provide connection |
| Use phone or video calls | On days when going out isn't possible, a phone call or video chat still counts as meaningful social contact |
What research shows: People who maintain social connections tend to report higher quality of life and fewer symptoms of depression, even when their pain levels are similar to those who are more isolated.