Imagine coming to work every day in constant pain. For up to 40% of American workers, this is a reality. Chronic pain – pain that persists for more than three months – affects millions of people in the workforce, impacting everything from motivation and productivity to sleep and mental health (Institute for Work & Health). The physical and psychological toll of chronic pain can lead to absenteeism, presenteeism (being at work but not fully engaged or productive), as well as decreased job satisfaction.
Chronic pain is often accompanied by lower employment fulfillment and feelings of being ostracized in the workplace (NIH). Constant pain acts as a persistent distraction, making it challenging for individuals to concentrate on their work tasks, not to mention feelings of isolation, stress, and worry.
Employers can play a crucial role in supporting employees with chronic pain. Offering compassion and flexibility is key, as people with chronic pain often deal with periods of time when the pain is more intense (Wellmark). Communication is crucial to ensure that employers understand their employee’s needs and any necessary adaptations to ensure success in their job role.
This is why we're launching the
"Giving Voice to Pain" campaign.
This summer, we want to highlight the strength of people living with chronic pain by using the help of AI. By providing answers to a few questions, we can generate a song about a person living with chronic pain, the challenges they face, and the perseverance they show every day.
Our goal is to raise awareness about the impact of chronic pain on daily life and work, and to encourage empathy and understanding through music.