High-level visual guide for this topic.
Quick answer
If your pain is dismissed, try again clearly, use examples, explain what the pain stops you doing, and tell another trusted adult or healthcare professional. Your pain still matters.
What “dismissed” can look like
Being dismissed means someone acts as if your pain does not matter, says you are overreacting, or does not take seriously how much the symptoms are affecting you. That can feel upsetting, but it does not mean your symptoms are not real.
How to try again clearly
- Be specific Say how strong the pain is, where it happens, and when it happens.
- Use impact examples Mention missed school, being unable to sleep, crying with pain, being sick, or not managing normal activities.
- Show notes if you have them A few tracked details can help people see a pattern rather than hearing only one moment.
Words you can use
- “This is stopping me from doing normal things.”
- “The pain is stronger than a normal ache for me.”
- “I need you to take this seriously.”
- “If you cannot help, I need to speak to someone else.”
If you still are not being heard
Try another adult such as a parent, carer, school nurse, teacher or doctor. Keep asking until someone listens. If the pain is severe or you feel very unwell, get urgent help straight away.
Remember: being dismissed does not cancel out your experience. You deserve support. Ask Luma prompt idea
Try asking: “I’m reading about what if my pain is dismissed?. Can you help me understand what signs I should look out for and what I could say to a trusted adult?”