September 1-30th 2025
September marks Pain Awareness Month, and the Irish Pain Society is proud to stand in solidarity with patients, healthcare professionals, and advocates to raise awareness about the impact of chronic pain in Ireland and beyond.
Pain Awareness Month is an international campaign dedicated to raising awareness of chronic pain and promoting a better understanding and management of this condition.
In Ireland, over one-third of adults suffer from chronic pain—making awareness and access to care critical.
As Ireland’s chapter of IASP and EFIC, the Irish Pain Society brings together professionals and researchers to advance education, clinical care, and patient well‑being in the field of pain management.
‘Beyond the Surface’: Chronic Pain Ireland launches national campaign to tackle stigma for Pain Awareness Month
Chronic Pain Ireland has today launched its 2025 Pain Awareness Month campaign with the theme ‘Beyond the Surface’, focusing on the hidden struggles of chronic pain and the stigma that surrounds it. Chronic pain is one of the most prevalent health issues in Ireland, yet it continues to receive limited recognition, understanding, and visibility.
📖 Read their full press release here and call to action.
On September 29th, a webinar “The Hidden Burden of Pain and Stigma” brings together leading experts to explore the human, societal, and healthcare costs of stigma – and the changes urgently needed to support those living with pain.
Speakers and topics
🔹The Human Cost of Stigma: The Hidden Impact of Not Being Believed – Dr Rosemary Keane, Principal Specialist Clinical Psychology, Mater Misericordiae Hospital
🔹Changing the System: From Awareness to Action – Tackling Stigma in Healthcare and Society – Prof. Brian McGuire, Professor of Clinical Psychology, Joint Director, Centre for Pain Research, University of Galway
🔹Psychology & Chronic Pain: Why It Matters – The Role of Psychology in Pain Care – Dr Rosemary Walsh, Senior Clinical Psychologist, St Vincent’s University Hospital
The presentations will be followed by a live Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with our expert speakers. Read more and register here
💜 Find out more about their Campaign, and please take one action today.
Chronic Pain Ireland Calendar of Events
EFIC’s European Day on Pain Awareness
In preparation for European Pain Awareness Day, held every third Wednesday of October, EFIC has put together some resources to help raise awareness, build support, and advocate for stronger policy action. This year’s theme focuses on prevention.
The resources include an infographic, slide decks, and an outline explaining why chronic pain prevention should be prioritised. The resources are available via the following link:
