What is your tell?

A common complaint among people with RSD is that others cannot understand their hardship because they don't look sick. Sometimes an individual will have a swollen hand of foot but most commonly they look relatively normal. I know this sounds like a good thing, but sometimes it is tough to feel understood when someone can not tell you are in severe pain. However, as I began to ponder this issue that exists among the pain community, I realized I do have a 'tell' that allows my friends and family to know it is a tough moment.

When I am feeling good, my voice sounds about ten octaves higher than normal. In addition, I will talk your ear off! This part I am not kidding about. At times, it feels like someone has been holding back a slingshot and then let it go. When the pain is high, I will usually just sit and listen. I begin to chew my lip, and I will figit with anything in my hand. The tone of my voice lowers and I become much more introverted.

I am sharing my 'tell' signals because  I want others to think about what non-verbal gestures suggest that they are hurting. Whether it is physical or emotional pain, we all have signs that give away we are experiencing a tough moment. Maybe by embracing and sharing these signs we will be able to communicate and be understood by others better. Maybe my 'tell' will not allow me to be the best gambler in Vegas, but they do allow others to understand and support me.