3. Not Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Arthritis is a form of chronic illness, and as such those who suffer from it are more likely to be diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or other mental health disorders. It makes complete sense: constant arthritis pain takes just as much of a toll on your mental well-being as it does on the physical (10).
Individuals with arthritis take nearly twice as many sick days and are more than twice as likely to report symptoms of depression and anxiety (11).In addition to regular doctor’s visits, consider seeing a mental health professional as well. It’s very important to know that you’re not alone and that it’s ok to have bad days.
Not seeking treatment decreases the likelihood of complying with treatment plans, which in turn can make the pain and inflammation worse, which then adversely affects mental health in a vicious circle (12). If you suffer from arthritis, you may be depressed and not even know it. Bottom line: don’t be afraid to address your mental health.
4. Avoiding Herbal Remedies
Despite naysayers, clinical trials confirm that natural therapies can be just as effective as modern medications in treating arthritic pain (13,14).
The benefits of natural treatments extend to mental health and quality of life as well – they may just not work immediately.
On the plus side, natural treatments such as turmeric, essential oils, and massage therapy have no adverse side effects.