Almost half of those living with arthritis in the west are ‘too sore to socialise’

Mayo Advertiser, May 01, 2009.
By Toni Bourke
The first nationwide survey on patient wellbeing and relationships, conducted by Arthritis Ireland and sponsored by Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals (Ireland), shows almost one in two (45.8 per cent) people with arthritis can no longer participate in social activities they used to enjoy, while one in three (31.3 per cent) are worried about how their condition has affected their appearance. The survey, which was conducted among 128 people with arthritis in seven rheumatology clinics around the country throughout 2008, shows the debilitating effect of arthritis on people as everyday life becomes difficult or impossible to maintain.
The survey gives an insight into the emotional wellbeing of people in the west with arthritis, revealing that one in three (32.7 per cent) say they are sad and depressed while two out of five (40.8 per cent) admit that sometimes it is hard to keep going and that their arthritis is a constant worry for them. One survey respondent declared: “I feel like arthritis has changed me from a normally positive, healthy, person to a depressed, lonely, fed-up, irritable person finding it hard to keep it together.”
Respondents who were in relationships discussed the impact that their arthritis has had on their relationship. Over one in three (35.7 per cent) believe their condition has had a negative impact on intimacy with their spouse or partner, with some stating they no longer have an active sex life. One survey respondent said: “We no longer have an active sex life but cuddling is also a bit curtailed which I regret.” Noticeably, for those respondents who are separated, divorced, or living apart, one in two (50 per cent) believe their arthritis was a contributing factor to their relationship break-up.
In response to the survey findings, Arthritis Ireland has produced a free support booklet entitled Coping with Emotions which offers support and advice on dealing with the emotions that accompany a diagnosis of arthritis. It is available by contacting Arthritis Ireland on LoCall 1890 252 846 or can be downloaded on www.arthritisireland.ie. Arthritis Ireland also provides a confidential helpline for people with arthritis, their families, carers, friends, and health professionals. It can be contacted from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday on LoCall 1890 252 846.