Counselling

Arthritis is a physically debilitating condition which causes a range of bodily symptoms. But it is important not to forget about the psychological effects as well.

This is where counselling can help.

Many people with arthritis become stressed, anxious or depressed due to their condition and feel as if they are on their own with this condition. They define themselves in relation to their arthritis and experience a rollercoaster of emotions on a daily basis.

This can be very difficult to deal with at times and often leads to frustration, anger, resentment and desperation.

If this sounds familiar then you may find it helpful to talk to someone professionally trained to help arthritis sufferers.

Talking to others about your arthritis

You will experience a range of emotions as a result of your condition which is a common feature of any long term disease such as arthritis. It is easy to become frustrated or angry about your condition which becomes bottled up inside you along with other emotions.

The problem with doing this is that it often makes things worse.

Talking about these feelings with someone who understands and can sympathise is a more helpful way of dealing with this. Plus it can be an effective way of releasing these feelings.

It is often easier to talk about your arthritis with someone in the same position. This can either be someone with the same type of arthritis, e.g. a fellow osteoarthritis sufferer or a self-help group.

This is not to dismiss the efforts of your friends and family who provide an invaluable source of help and advice. But you may prefer to talk to a professional counsellor who is familiar with your condition and can help you to talk things through.

Your GP may be able to recommend a counsellor. Another option is to contact an organisation such as Arthritis Care (www.arthritiscare.org.uk) for help and advice. They may have counsellors or be able to recommend someone to you.

There will be times when you feel down because of your arthritis so it is a good idea to socialise with other people. This will improve your mood and help to take your mind off your condition.