Finding mental health support when living with RA is such an important step, and it's great that you're looking into it. The stress and emotional weight of managing a chronic condition is very real.
Here are some practical ways to find a therapist or psychologist:
- Ask your rheumatologist for a referral to a mental Show Full Answer
Finding mental health support when living with RA is such an important step, and it's great that you're looking into it. The stress and emotional weight of managing a chronic condition is very real.
Here are some practical ways to find a therapist or psychologist:
- Ask your rheumatologist for a referral to a mental health professional who has experience with chronic illness or pain management
- Contact your hospital or medical practice directly — many offer referrals to psychologists, health psychologists, or counselors as part of their patient services
- Ask about a patient liaison or nurse navigator at your care center, as they often connect patients to mental health resources
- Look into a health psychologist specifically — they specialize in helping people accept and understand chronic pain, which can be incredibly valuable As one myRAteam member shared, their doctor referred them to a health psychologist who helped them with acceptance of chronic pain and even taught them meditation — which they described as "priceless."
If depression or anxiety are affecting your daily life, don't hesitate to bring it up directly with your doctor. Treatment options can include therapy, medication, or both. You deserve that support! 💙
May 17
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