Jordan Sudberg on Medical Gaslighting in Pain Care: How to Recognize It and Advocate for Yourself

Chronic pain patients face many challenges on their journey to relief, but one of the most insidious obstacles is medical gaslighting. This term refers to when healthcare providers dismiss, minimize, or outright deny a patient’s pain or symptoms—often leaving patients feeling unheard, misunderstood, and invalidated. For individuals suffering from chronic pain, this experience can deepen emotional distress and delay effective treatment.

Pain management specialist Jordan Sudberg has witnessed firsthand the impact of medical gaslighting on patients and emphasizes the importance of recognizing it early and learning how to advocate effectively for oneself.

In this article, we explore what medical gaslighting looks like in pain care, why it happens, and most importantly, how patients can empower themselves to get the compassionate, appropriate treatment they deserve.

 

What Is Medical Gaslighting?

Medical gaslighting occurs when a patient’s reports of pain or other symptoms are doubted, downplayed, or attributed to psychological causes without sufficient evidence. This can manifest in various ways, such as:

• Being told “It’s all in your head.”

• Having symptoms dismissed as exaggeration or attention-seeking.

• Receiving inadequate diagnostic testing or treatment options.

• Experiencing delayed or denied referrals to specialists.

• Being labeled as drug-seeking or non-compliant without cause.

Jordan Sudberg explains,

“Medical gaslighting is a form of invalidation that erodes trust between patients and providers. For people with chronic pain, who already face stigma, this can be devastating.”

 

Why Does Medical Gaslighting Happen in Pain Care?

Pain is a subjective experience—there are no blood tests or scans that can measure it definitively. This invisibility sometimes leads healthcare professionals to doubt the severity or even the existence of a patient’s pain.

Several factors contribute to gaslighting in pain care:

1. Lack of Objective Evidence

Doctors may struggle to validate pain without clear diagnostic results, leading to assumptions that the pain is psychological.

2. Stigma Around Chronic Pain and Opioids

The opioid crisis has increased scrutiny on pain patients, sometimes causing providers to view them suspiciously or as potential drug seekers.

3. Time Constraints and Burnout

Physicians pressed for time may unintentionally dismiss symptoms to move appointments along.

4. Gender and Racial Biases

Research shows women and minorities are disproportionately affected by medical gaslighting.

Jordan Sudberg urges the medical community to become more educated and empathetic, but also stresses patient empowerment:

“While systemic change is needed, patients must learn to recognize gaslighting and advocate for themselves.”

 

Recognizing Medical Gaslighting: Signs to Watch For

Being able to identify when gaslighting is happening is the first step toward taking control of your pain care journey.

Jordan Sudberg advises patients to be aware of these red flags:

• Your pain or symptoms are consistently dismissed or minimized.

• You feel rushed or ignored during appointments.

• Providers repeatedly suggest your pain is “all psychological” without thorough evaluation.

• You notice reluctance to perform diagnostic tests or referrals.

• You are labeled as “difficult,” “non-compliant,” or “drug-seeking” without clear evidence.

If you experience these signs, it may be time to reconsider your care approach.

 

How to Advocate for Yourself in Pain Care

Taking control in the face of medical gaslighting requires courage and strategy. Jordan Sudberg offers the following tips for patients navigating this difficult landscape:

1. Educate Yourself About Your Condition

Understanding your diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment options arms you with knowledge to ask informed questions and challenge dismissal.

2. Keep Detailed Records

Document your pain levels, symptoms, medications, treatments, and how pain affects daily life. Bringing a pain journal to appointments can strengthen your case.

3. Bring a Trusted Advocate

Having a family member or friend accompany you can provide moral support and help ensure your concerns are heard.

4. Use Clear, Assertive Communication

Be direct but respectful in describing your pain and its impact. Use specific language and avoid minimizing your own experience.

5. Seek Second Opinions

If a provider repeatedly dismisses you, don’t hesitate to consult other pain specialists or healthcare professionals.

6. Know Your Rights

Familiarize yourself with patient rights and legal protections, including those under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other relevant laws in your country.

7. Leverage Multidisciplinary Care

Working with a team that includes pain specialists, psychologists, physical therapists, and others can provide a comprehensive approach less prone to dismissal.

 

The Role of Pain Specialists Like Jordan Sudberg

Pain management specialists are uniquely trained to recognize the complex nature of chronic pain, combining medical knowledge with empathy and patient-centered care.

Jordan Sudberg highlights the importance of finding providers who:

• Believe and validate your pain.

• Take time to listen and perform thorough assessments.

• Develop individualized treatment plans.

• Support patients in advocacy and education.

“When patients find the right pain specialist, it can be a turning point from feeling dismissed to feeling understood,” Sudberg says.

 

Combating the Emotional Toll of Gaslighting

Medical gaslighting doesn’t just delay treatment—it can also cause lasting emotional harm. Patients often experience anxiety, depression, and a loss of trust in healthcare.

Jordan Sudberg stresses that managing this emotional fallout is part of effective pain care:

• Seek counseling or support groups focused on chronic pain.

• Practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques to reduce stress.

• Connect with others who understand your experience.

“Healing pain requires healing the whole person,” Sudberg reminds us.

 

Moving Forward: Changing the Narrative in Pain Care

While medical gaslighting remains a barrier, increased awareness and patient empowerment are shifting the landscape.

Jordan Sudberg encourages patients and providers to work together for a future where pain is met with respect and effective care.

“Patients must trust their voices, and providers must listen deeply. Only then can we break the cycle of gaslighting and improve outcomes for everyone living with pain.”

 

Final Thoughts

Medical gaslighting in pain care is a painful reality for many, but recognizing it and learning how to advocate for yourself can transform your healthcare experience. With knowledge, preparation, and the right support—including specialists like Jordan Sudberg—patients can reclaim control over their pain management journey.

If you or a loved one is struggling with chronic pain and feels unheard by healthcare providers, don’t hesitate to seek specialized care and utilize the strategies outlined here.