Relax More in Arthritis: Reduce Stress

You can’t avoid stress completely, but you can reduce it. For example, if noise bothers you when you are uncomfortable, relax in a room away from other family members. Close the door. Play soft music. Use headphones on a stereo set if the kind of music you like isn’t the favorite of other family members.

Plan some time each day just for yourself. That may involve taking a walk, reading something unrelated to your job that you enjoy, or watching a favorites program on television. It may mean going to a health club or gym or swimming. Don’t wait for free time to do the things you enjoy. Build that free time into each day, and you will feel more relaxed during the remainder of the day.

Don’t over plan family or social activities. Try not to be rushed. You may find that just getting ready for an activity takes longer than it once did. Avoid the stress induced by being late. Plan ahead. Allow enough time for necessary preparations. For example, some women with arthritis know that getting ready for a party takes longer because of closing clasps on jewellary and perhaps fastening small buttons. If you have trouble doing certain chores with your fingers, allow extra preparation time to enable you to appear smiling and ready at the appointed time.

Having a chronic disease such as arthritis produces stress for you as well as other members of your family. With chronic discomfort you may find that your temperament is not as even as it once was. At times you may become more irritable with those you love or with whom you work. To compensate for this, think before you react or act Take sufficient time in making decisions. Keep lines of communication open between yourself and your family members and co-workers. Their understanding of your disease may enable them to keep a calmer attitude about everyday problems. While they shouldn’t pamper you, it may be helpful if they can resolve some conflicts without involving you.

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Relax More in Arthritis: Reduce Stress