Welsh Backs

Problem Solving - very often when we want to do something, there is a problem that prevents us from doing it. There are seven problem solving steps:

1. Identify the real problem - getting down to the root of the problem is very important rather than focusing on the result of the problem.
2. Make a list of all the possible solutions - look at the wider picture to help you think of different options for doing things in different ways.
3. Choose one of the ideas from the list you have made and give it a try.
4. Did it work - "if the idea works then the problem is solved, if not then" choose another one from your list; you can go through each of the other ideas in turn until you find one that works for you.
5. Get help from elsewhere - if you have tried all the ideas on your list and none of them have solved your problem, then you ask for help from others such as family, friends, professionals or people with similar problems to you who may be part of a pain management group.
6. Put the problem on one side for a while - sometimes you have to accept that you can't solve that problem right now, you may need to wait until you feel a bit better or, for example, for your home or work circumstances to change. Whatever we plan to do, life can always get in the way, it is ok to give yourself permission to put problems on hold sometimes!