Lifestyle The emotional toll of arthritis New research from Arthritis Care reveals the hidden impact on mental wellbeing Words: shona CLeLand M embers received a copy of our survey, Your life with arthritis, in the last issue of Inspire. Thank you to everyone who helped with this research; we received more than 3,000 responses, which will help us to make a strong case for better support for people with arthritis. We have published some of the findings to launch our new campaign, Wake up to arthritis, which aims to raise awareness of the condition and ensure that those living with arthritis know were here to help. Our survey highlights the huge effect that arthritis can have on mental health: 79 per cent of respondents said their condition makes them feel depressed or anxious. It is clear that living with the symptoms of arthritis can have stark implications for emotional wellbeing. We also found that 80 per cent of respondents have given up activities they enjoy, 50 per cent feel isolated or lonely because of their arthritis, and 89 per cent worry about how it will affect their future independence. Feelings of anxiety and depression are more common among those who experience severe pain or fatigue, struggle with day-to-day activities, have lost contact with friends or have given up activities they enjoy. A better deal Only 43 per cent of respondents told us that they feel they can manage their arthritis well so its clear that lots of people do not get the support they need from health and care services. Lack of support can make it more difficult to stay in touch with friends and family, and keep up social activities. Poor understanding of the impact of arthritis can also put a strain on relationships; 54 per cent told us that people do not generally understand their condition. We think this research should be a wake-up call for policy-makers to recognise the hidden impact of arthritisand improve support, so that everyone with arthritis can lead a full and active life. Sound familiar? We want to make sure that people with arthritis who experience low mood or feelings of anxiety or depression know they are not alone. If this sounds like you, dont suffer in silence. Talk to your GP, nurse, therapist or specialist. Your GP can help you find counselling ifyou want it. find out more Campaign with us! To speak to someone about how arthritis makes you feel, call our Helpline team on 0808 800 4050. For advice on the emotional effects of arthritis, click here or ask the Helpline team to post a booklet out to you. Or read our report, Hidden impact: Arthritis and mental wellbeing. We need your help to make arthritis a government and health service priority. To join Arthritis Cares campaign network and receive emails with updates and ways to get involved, click here.
