More than bones: Arthritis affecting sufferers’ mental health

Most people wouldn’t link painful arthritis with mental health issues, yet an alarming new report has found Australians living with arthritis are more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and panic attacks.

The research, conducted by the Medibank Better Health Index, found people living with arthritis are more likely than the general population to experience a deterioration in mental health. The results, drawn from an Australian survey of more than 50,000 people, found depression impacts 22.3 per cent of people living with arthritis. In comparison, it affects 16.3 per cent of the general population.

It wasn’t just depression that hit arthritis patients the hardest. Anxiety affects 21.7 per cent of the arthritis population, while 19.2 per cent of the general population experience it. Meanwhile, panic attacks impact 7.3 per cent of those with arthritis, compared with 5.8 per cent in the general population.

The research also found people living with arthritis are twice as likely to struggle when it comes to sleep. In total, 10.1 per cent live with sleep disorders, compared to 5.7 per cent of people in the general population.

Medibank Chief Medical Officer Dr Linda Swan said it was clear arthritis was more than just a physical condition.

“While arthritis is a physical health condition, we know it can also take a major toll on the mental wellbeing of those affected – with chronic pain, mobility loss and a reduced ability to take part in physical and social activities all playing potential roles,” she said in a statement.

“These findings confirm how essential it is that people with arthritis take measures to not only manage the physical symptoms of the condition, but also their mental health as well, and seek support from their arthritis specialist, GP or other health professional if required.”

The data found people with rheumatoid arthritis are most likely to also live with depression, while anxiety is more common in people with osteoarthritis. Meanwhile, 23.8 per cent of those with gout and joint inflammation experience depression, while 21.0 per cent live with depression.

Swan said there were things people could do if they were experiencing a decline in mental health.

“While we know all forms of arthritis can impact one’s mental wellbeing, it’s interesting to see that certain types may be taking a greater toll than others,” she said. “If you’re at risk or currently living with the condition, consider tailoring your lifestyle to reduce certain modifiable risk factors – such as maintaining a healthy weight, and participating in regular physical activity.”

Many who practice mindful meditation use the technique to help ease anxiety and stress, while others say it helps when managing pain. Others find remaining active and exercising regularly can help manage pain, while losing weight and eating a healthy diet can take pressure off muscles and joints.

It’s always important to talk to a GP or a doctor about your symptoms, as some techniques that work for some won’t work for others.

What do you think? Are you surprised to see a link between arthritis and mental health?