You Are Not Alone: Facing Pain and Loneliness Together This Christmas
Living with trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and facial pain can be isolating. The unpredictability of pain, the exhaustion of managing treatments, and the fear of triggering symptoms can create invisible barriers between sufferers and the world around them. For many, this experience is especially poignant during the festive season, a time traditionally associated with joy, connection, and celebration. Support for trigeminal neuralgia sufferers this Christmas.
At TNA UK, we know how challenging it can be to navigate this dual burden of pain and loneliness. That’s why we’re here—not just at Christmas but every day—to offer a lifeline of support, understanding, and connection.
The Link Between Pain and Loneliness
Chronic pain doesn’t just affect the body; it impacts every aspect of life. Studies have shown that individuals living with long-term pain are at greater risk of experiencing social isolation and loneliness. This is partly because pain often forces people to withdraw from social activities, avoid gatherings, or turn down invitations due to fear of triggering a painful episode.
The emotional toll of this withdrawal can be profound. Over time, it may lead to feelings of disconnection, depression, or anxiety, making the cycle of loneliness and pain even harder to break.
But here’s the good news: while TN may feel isolating, you are not alone. Thousands of others understand the unique challenges of living with this condition, and together, we can support each other to build resilience and hope.
Support at TNA UK: A Lifeline When You Need It Most
At TNA UK, our mission is simple: to ensure no one faces TN or facial pain alone. Our freephone helpline and email service are available to all sufferers, offering a safe space to share your worries, ask for advice, or simply feel heard.
- Freephone Helpline: 0800 999 1899 (option 1)
- Email: [email protected]
Whether you need practical tips for managing pain, emotional support during a tough time, or just someone who understands, we are here to help.
Additional Helplines Available Over Christmas
We also recognise that this time of year can bring unique challenges. In addition to our own services, several national helplines are available to support you:
- Samaritans: Offering 24/7 confidential emotional support. Call 116 123.
- Age UK: Advice and companionship for older people. Call 0800 678 1602 (8am-7pm, including Christmas Day).
- Shout: A confidential crisis text service available 24/7. Text SHOUT to 85258.
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: Free support, available 24/7. Call 0808 2000 247.
- The Silver Line: Friendship and advice for those aged 55+. Call 0800 4 70 80 90 (24/7).
- NHS 111: For non-emergency medical advice. Call 111 (option 2 connects to urgent mental health support).
- CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Supporting those affected by suicidal thoughts. Call 0800 58 58 58 (5pm-midnight).
These helplines are staffed by compassionate professionals and volunteers, ready to provide guidance and reassurance during the festive period.
The Strength of Community
One of the most powerful antidotes to loneliness is connection. This year, TNA UK has been privileged to bring people together through both in-person and virtual events. These gatherings remind us all of the strength found in shared understanding and the hope that comes from knowing we are not alone in our experiences.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled to announce a special event in Cardiff for 2025, supported by the National Lottery. This event will provide opportunities to connect, learn, and grow as a community, and we will share more details soon.
A Christmas Wish
This Christmas, we were deeply moved by a poem from Gemma, aged 10, who shared her wish for her grandmother:
My Christmas Wish
A Christmas Wish
This festive season, we’re moved by a poignant poem from Gemma, aged 10, who shared her wish for her grandmother:
My Christmas Wish
Grandma’s face looks sad and grey,
The pain is back, it won’t go away.
She holds her cheek and shuts her eyes,
I wish I couldn’t hear her cries.
She says, “Don’t worry, I’ll be fine.”
But I can see she’s lost.
I hate this pain, it makes her sad,
It’s not her fault, it’s just so bad.
I don’t want toys or sweets this year,
I just want Grandma’s pain to go away.
I close my eyes and pray,
“Please make her better, take the horrible pain away.”
All I want is for her to be a Grandma again,
For her to laugh like she did back then.
This Christmas, my one wish,
Is for Grandma to smile again.
Gemma’s heartfelt words reflect the hopes of so many in our community: to live in a world where pain no longer robs us of joy and connection. At TNA UK, we are working tirelessly toward that future, advocating for better treatments and raising awareness about TN and facial pain.
Looking to the Future
As we move into 2025, TNA UK remains committed to:
- Advocating for better treatments and recognition of TN.
- Expanding support services for sufferers and carers.
- Raising awareness to ensure no one faces this journey alone.
The festive season is a time for hope, and at TNA UK, we believe in a brighter future for everyone living with TN and facial pain. No matter how tough the journey feels, you are not alone, and together, we will continue to stand strong.
Wishing You Warmth and Strength
From all of us at TNA UK, we wish you and your loved ones a Christmas filled with comfort, peace, and connection. Remember, support is always just a call or email away.
Warm wishes,
The TNA UK Team
Aneeta Prem MBE
