Building a Support Network for Motivation in Arthritis Management
November 2024
Managing arthritis can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. The chronic pain, limited mobility, and lifestyle adjustments
associated with arthritis can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, having a strong support network can make a huge difference. When you
have people who encourage you, provide comfort, and offer practical assistance, it can boost your motivation and improve your quality of
life.
In this article, we’ll explore why building a support network is an important part of managing arthritis, who you can turn to for
support, and how to make the most of this network to stay motivated on your arthritis management journey.
Why a Support Network is Important for Arthritis Management:
Arthritis is a long-term condition that often requires ongoing treatment and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms effectively. The daily
effort to cope with pain, stiffness, and fatigue can lead to stress, frustration, and even feelings of isolation. A strong support network
can reduce some of these challenges by offering emotional encouragement, practical assistance, and shared experiences.
Here’s why a support network is so valuable:
#1. Emotional Support:
Dealing with arthritis can be emotionally taxing, and there may be days when you feel discouraged. Having people who listen,
understand, and encourage you can lift your spirits and remind you that you're not alone in this journey.
For more information, read our article on Support
for Mental Wellbeing.
#2. Shared Understanding:
People who also live with arthritis can provide a unique form of empathy and advice. They understand your struggles firsthand and can
offer helpful insights and coping strategies that have worked for them. Sharing experiences and receiving support from peers can
provide comfort and encouragement.
Join one of our online arthritis support groups or speak with one of
our volunteer peer-mentors in our Arthritis
Assist service
- they also live with arthritis just like you.
#3. Motivation to Stay Active:
Staying active is crucial for managing arthritis, but it can be challenging to stay motivated, especially when pain levels fluctuate. A
support network can provide the motivation and accountability needed to stay committed to exercise and self-care routines.
#4. Practical Assistance, Problem-Solving & Advice:
There may be tasks that become difficult to do alone due to arthritis, such as carrying heavy items, cleaning, or driving. A supportive
friend or family member can offer assistance with these tasks, making daily life easier and less stressful.
Friends, family, or healthcare professionals may also have valuable advice on arthritis management. From recommending lifestyle changes to
suggesting helpful products, a support network can be an invaluable source of information.
Who to Include in Your Support Network
Building a support network doesn’t necessarily mean having a large group of people. Quality is more important than quantity. Here are some
key people or groups you might consider including in your network:
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Family Members and Close Friends: Your family and close friends are often the foundation of your support network. They know
you best and may be more than willing to offer emotional support and help with day-to-day taks when needed.
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Healthcare Professionals: Your doctor, physical therapist, occupational therapist, and other healthcare providers are
essential parts of your support network. They can offer guidance on managing symptoms, creating exercise routines, and optimising
treatment plans. Regular check-ins can also help you stay on track with your management plan.
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Arthritis Support Groups: Support groups, either in-person, online, or via telephone can connect you with people who are
also living with arthritis. These groups provide a safe space to share experiences, tips, and encouragement. You can find support groups
through your local community, or via our website for online or telephone
peer support.
-
Community Organisations: Some community organisations, churches, or senior centers offer support programs for people
living with arthritis and other chronic conditions. They may provide exercise classes, social activities, or educational workshops that
can help you manage your condition and stay active.
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Online Communities and Social Media: In today’s digital age, online communities can provide a wealth of support. There
are forums, Facebook groups, and dedicated websites where people with arthritis share advice, ask questions, and offer encouragement.
Online communities are especially beneficial for those who live in remote areas or have limited access to in-person support.
How to Build and Strengthen Your Support Network
Building a support network requires open communication, mutual understanding, and a willingness to reach out for help. Here are some steps
to help you create and strengthen a support network for arthritis management:
#1. Be Open and Honest about Your Needs:
The people in your life may not fully understand what you’re going through or the challenges you face with arthritis. Being open and honest
about your needs and limitations can help them understand how they can support you. Share your experiences, explain how arthritis affects
your daily life, and let them know when you need help. Clear communication fosters empathy and reduces misunderstandings.
#2. Reach Out to Others with Arthritis:
There’s a lot of value in connecting with others who also have arthritis. They understand the highs and lows of managing a chronic
condition, and they can offer valuable advice based on their experiences. Reach out to local support groups or consider joining an online
community where you can build friendships and learn from others facing similar challenges.
Join one of our online arthritis support groups or speak with one of
our volunteer peer-mentors in our Arthritis
Assist service
- they also live with arthritis just like you.
#3. Ask for Help When You Need It:
It can be hard to ask for help but remember that people who care about you want to support you. When you’re having a particularly difficult
day, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance with tasks that may be challenging due to pain or fatigue. Whether it’s asking a friend to run an
errand for you or requesting support from a family member, reaching out can make a big difference.
#4. Stay Connected and Socially Engaged:
Isolation can increase feelings of stress and loneliness, it is important to stay socially connected. Make time to catch up with
friends and family, even if it’s through phone calls or virtual meetings. Engage in activities you enjoy and participate in community
events or hobbies when possible. Staying connected with others can have a positive impact on your emotional wellbeing.
#5. Attend Educational Workshops and Events
Education is empowering, and many community organisations and arthritis-focused groups offer workshops, webinars, and events to help people
learn more about managing arthritis. Attending these events can help you connect with others, build relationships, and gain useful knowledge
for your arthritis journey.
Visit our webinar library to watch our recorded webinars here.
#6. Celebrate Small Wins Together
Managing arthritis can feel like an uphill battle, but there are victories along the way. Celebrating small accomplishments, such as
completing a physical therapy milestone, finding a new coping strategy, or achieving a pain-free morning, can reinforce positivity and
motivation. Share these wins with your support network and allow them to celebrate with you.
How Your Support Network Can Help Keep You Motivated
A support network can be a powerful motivator to help you stay on track with your arthritis management goals. Here are some ways your
network can help:
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Accountability for Self-Care: Whether it’s reminding you to take your medication, encouraging you to do your exercises,
or motivating you to stick with healthy habits, your support network can help hold you accountable.
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Encouragement During Tough Times: Arthritis management isn’t always easy, and there will be days when you feel
disheartened. Your support network can provide the emotional boost you need during these tough times, reminding you of your progress and
offering words of encouragement.
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Helping You Set and Achieve Goals: Sometimes, it can be hard to set realistic goals on your own. Your support network,
including your healthcare providers, can help you set achievable goals for your physical health, mental wellbeing, and daily activities.
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Providing Different Perspectives: Your support network brings different perspectives, and sometimes they may suggest new
ideas or approaches that you haven’t considered. Whether it’s a new exercise routine, pain management technique, or mindfulness practice,
their suggestions can help you manage arthritis more effectively.
Building a support network for arthritis management can be an important tool for both your physical and mental wellbeing. When you have a
group of people who understand and support you, the challenges of managing arthritis can feel more manageable.
Remember, you don’t have to face arthritis alone. By surrounding yourself with friends, family, healthcare providers, and others who
understand what you’re going through, you’ll gain motivation, strength, and encouragement to keep moving forward.
Take the time to build a support network that works for you, and don’t hesitate to reach out to others. Living with arthritis may be
challenging, but with the right people by your side, you can allow yourself to manage your condition and live a fulfilling, active
life.
How Arthritis Queensland can help
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Talk with a peer-mentor in our free Arthritis
Assist service.
Source:
1. Arthritis Foundation. Build a support system to fight arthritis. [cited 6 Nov 2024]. Available from: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/emotional-well-being/emotional-self-care/build-a-support-system-to-fight-arthritis
