In case you haven’t following along on social media, a new Muse came earth side and I’m getting to know her.
I’m really grateful for the network of business owners I’ve built who also enjoy writing to step in and guest post when my real life takes priority over cyber life.
The post touches on something that rarely gets discussed in the social media space: how we build meaningful connections online when physical presence isn't always possible. I'm honored to share this powerful piece from Katy Owens, of Empowered Path Occupational Therapy who opens up about navigating social media and community-building while living with chronic pain.
What drew me to Katy's story was her refreshingly honest take on social media's original purpose - connection - and how we can reclaim that intention for ourselves. In a world of highlight reels and perfect feeds, Katy reminds us that there's immense value in sharing our authentic experiences, even (or especially) when they're messy.
As someone who believes in the power of intentional social media use, I appreciate how Katy offers practical wisdom for creating what she calls a "social media sanctuary." Her insights about curating our online spaces aren't just for those living with chronic pain – they're valuable for anyone seeking more meaningful digital connections.
I'll let Katy take it from here. I think you'll find her perspective both challenging and inspiring.
Over to Katy...
Chronic pain sucks. And if you are someone who lives with chronic pain, or know someone who does, you may know that it sucks in so many ways and is unique to each person. Today I want to talk about how chronic pain can lead to feeling isolated and cut off from your social support.
Unfortunately, living with chronic pain can lead to social isolation because of the unpredictable nature of pain flares. Maybe you were invited out to a new brewery with your friends, but alcohol might cause a flare, or they might not have comfortable seating, or it could be really loud inside or a dozen other things. So instead of spending important time with friends, you say no, or cancel at the last minute because the stress and anxiety of the event is not worth the potential social benefits.
As you cancel more and more social invitations, maybe you stop getting the invitation. This can ultimately cause spiraling into depression, as you might look up one day to realize your friend group is nonexistent.
I’ve been in this situation and found respite in social media. When we think about the origins of the various platforms, it’s crucial to remember that the original goal was connection. Where did that go? It’s almost been entirely lost to influencers, AI generated images, restock videos, and obnoxious product placement.
What we don’t often see is the Behind the Scenes of social media, instead we spend hours comparing ourselves to the highlight reel of others. But I’m here for the bloopers. It’s okay to be messy, and sad, and less than perfect. When I was seeking community on social media, I started by curating my feed. Who were the people or organizations I was following, and WHY was I following them? When I read their posts or watched their videos, how did that make me feel? I started unfollowing and unfriending any person or profile that made me feel less than, and instead sought people who were at minimum broadcasting content that was realistic, inspirational without toxic positivity, and resonated with my lived experience. What I was left with was a feed full of seemingly authentic humans with relatable life experiences, and thoughts and feelings that feel genuine. It’s not perfect, and it’s always evolving as I evolve as a person.
There is a ommunity out there for you, whether you also live with chronic pain or are just looking for a group of people who love soup as much as you do. And if you need it: I give you permission to unfriend, unfollow, curate and customize your feed. It’s *your* space, after All!
I have a favorite quotation from Marianne Williamson that is a constant inspiration for the space that I aim to create on social media, for myself and others: “…as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Never be afraid to show the world who you are. Create your own social media sanctuary if you must, and curate your feed so you’re inspired by people doing the same. Even if we live with chronic pain and are still finding ways to get back out into the real world for real life connection with friends new or old, we can still engage in meaningful connection right here on the internet.
I, for one, can’t wait to meet you. Let’s make this space beautiful.
About Katy
I work as an acute care occupational therapist in Northern Colorado and also own an occupational therapy private practice specializing in pain management. I earned my Master’s in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State University, where I was honored to receive the distinction of Outstanding Grad Student of the Class of 2022 from the College of Health and Human Services.
Before starting my career as an occupational therapist, I served in the United States Coast Guard. An injury and my subsequent rehabilitation sparked my interest in occupational therapy and fueled my passion for advocating a biopsychosocial approach to pain management combined with an occupation-based approach.
I had the opportunity to present at the Colorado State Association Annual Conference in both 2023 and 2024. I was also selected from a wide pool of applicants to speak at the UCHealth 2024 Symposium, where I shared with fellow therapy practitioners and other medical professionals the value of OT in pain management and the biopsychosocial model of pain.
Connect With Katy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-owens-ot/
