I read an interesting article on the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society Web site about a study on rheumatoid arthritis and depression.
“When someone is depressed, they feel down most of the time and no longer look forward to events or enjoy things. It is also common for someone experiencing depression to turn away support from other people and feel bad about themselves for no apparent reason. In the worst scenario, depressed people feel that life is no longer worth living and may harm themselves.”
The study was done by the Rheumatology Unit at the Dudley Group of Hospitals and the School of Psychology at the University of Birmingham. According to the study, more than 10 percent of the people with RA reported high depression.
Depression can be a big problem for people dealing with RA. It can be hard to be upbeat when you have painful flare-ups or medications aren’t helping you. I know I had some down moments when I was first diagnosed and having the most problems with my RA. The article also offers some good advice for those suffering from depression:
“Depression is not something to be ashamed of. Asking for help is one of the first steps out of depression. There are many things that can help you when you feel depressed. Antidepressant medicines can lift the worst feelings but are not a permanent solution. Cognitive behavioural therapy (or CBT) is a psychological therapy that can help address the way you feel and how you think about the future when you are experiencing depression. Cognitive behavioural therapy usually involves around six to 10 weekly sessions that can be delivered to groups, one-on-one or even over the internet. It is now recommended that antidepressant medicines and cognitive behavioural therapy are combined to combat depression (as described in national guidelines detailed in the links section). If you feel you are depressed, then it is worth mentioning this to your general practitioner, your rheumatologist or your rheumatology nurses so they can help you overcome these feelings and enjoy your life. If you have been taking antidepressants for a while without any cognitive behavioural therapy and do not yet feel completely better then ask for an update. Some form of therapy may now be available for you locally. Exercise is also recommended (within your ability range). Regular exercise can improve your mood and strengthen your muscles, including the most important muscle, your heart.”
Until next time,
S.P.
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