Christina Donnelly
Executive Director, Chronic Pain Ireland
In Ireland, up to one in three people live with chronic pain — a condition that impacts every aspect of life, from work to mental health. Yet, it remains one of the least understood and most under-recognised chronic illnesses.
Chronic pain often has no visible signs. This invisibility leads to misunderstanding, isolation and stigma — leaving many to suffer in silence. For people living with neurological conditions, between 20% and 40% also experience chronic pain as part of their diagnosis. Despite this, care is too often fragmented, delayed or absent.
Community-focused chronic pain support
At Chronic Pain Ireland (CPI), we support people living with chronic pain through peer-led self-management programmes, a confidential helpline, regular online workshops, and accessible digital resources. However, support alone isn’t enough. CPI also advocates year-round for joined-up, person-centred care — particularly in the community, where early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce long-term disability.
For people living with neurological conditions,
between 20% and 40% also experience
chronic pain as part of their diagnosis.
Campaign committed to chronic pain
In September, during Pain Awareness Month, we will build on this ongoing work with a national campaign to spotlight the realities of chronic pain, challenge stigma and push for better services. People living with chronic pain need your support.
Join us in tackling national chronic pain issues
Whether you’re living with chronic pain, caring for someone who is or working in the health system, we invite you to stand with us. Together, we can create a future where people living with pain are listened to, understood and supported — not just to cope, but to thrive.
Visit chronicpain.ie to learn more.
