Here are some tips for handling physical or emotional pain:

- Breathe deeply - Take slow, controlled breaths to help relax yourself. Focus on inhaling and exhaling instead of the pain. Calm breathing can help lower tension, heart rate, and blood pressure.

- Use relaxation techniques - Belly breathing, meditation, massage, Tai Chi, or visualization of a soothing scene can all help distract from the pain and relax muscles or the mind. Finding the one that works for you can be hugely beneficial.

- Change your focus - Finding the smallest detail in your surroundings to focus your attention on, like counting the weave of blankets or a crack in the ceiling, can divert your hyperfocus from the pain sensation. Engaging in a distracting conversation, reading, or listening to a podcast can also shift your focus.

- Modify your environment - Move to a bright, relaxing environment. Raise or lower the lighting. Apply a heating pad or cold pack to painful joints or muscles. Soothing music, aromas, a cozy blanket, even chewing gum can modify your perception of pain.

- Talk it out - Sharing your feelings and describing your pain to a close friend, family member, or therapist can help validate and process the painful sensations and emotions.

- Pace yourself - Don't overdo activities that may exacerbate the pain. Give yourself permission to rest or take things slow. Learn to say "no" without guilt. Identify triggers for flares or setbacks, then avoid or limit those when possible.

Finding the right coping strategies for you may take some experimentation. Having multiple tools to implement can be helpful. Don't give up! Minimizing pain helps you feel more in control and enjoy life more.