Many well-meaning people may offer advice. Magazines and the media are full of articles on arthritis and its treatment. Unfortunately, there are no miracle cures or easy answers. Discuss things with your doctor and think about the advice in this booklet before spending money on new ideas. Keeping the Spirits Up Pain killing drugs have a better effect when you are in a good state of mind.
Depression tends to make pain worse by lowering the threshold to pain.
A positive and hopeful approach to the trouble is half the battle. Too much rest and inactivity lowers your morale, whereas hobbies and interests take your mind off the illness. Perhaps you would consider joining the Arthritis Foundation as a volunteer. They will be glad to provide advice and support. The Arthritis Foundation of Ireland is the only national charity dedicated to further research, education and community care for this all too common disease - 1 out of every 7 citizens has some form of Arthritis.