Does Your PsA Make You Less Social?

Are you experiencing social angst because of your PsA? Do you miss out on going out with friends or family? Do you feel like your PsA keeps you less active? I know mine does.

There are times when my PsA can completely ruin my plans. Having arthritis means flares can happen anytime.

Pain can pop up and make sleeping uncomfortable or cause morning stiffness. Besides that, there is swelling, too.

Relationships and PsA challenges

PsA can strain relationships, especially for many patients who experience a sudden onset triggered by a traumatic event. It can feel like, overnight, they’re facing new physical and mental challenges. Maintaining friendships can be hard when you are in uncharted waters.

Family and friends sometimes don't understand that your own body is at war with you. Pain, swelling, and fatigue are now lifemates.

Trying to explain something people can not experience for themselves is not always easy. Many people tend to pass it off as "not being so bad." This can hurt as a patient because you feel like people are dismissing your pain. Others can feel what you feel so they don't see the fatigue or know you are no longer sleeping well.

Teaching others about life with PsA

In my journey, I learned to teach others about the situation. First, I tried to explain what had happened and how the disease impacted me physically.

Secondly, when we had a quiet moment, I let people understand how I felt about all of this. I hoped to let them know how the comments made me feel.

Thirdly, no one was at fault, which had to be made completely clear. Trying to remember this is new to those around me was not easy. Emotionally I would get hurt by things being said. Those were the times that were hardest.

One thing that was very hard for me was letting people know that I wasn't saying NEVER to invites. Learning to say "not right now" was a saver! This allowed my family and friends to realize that it was not that I didn't want to do things with them it was that my body wouldn't let me do these things.

My goal was to keep communication open. Those 3 words told those involved with me not to stop asking me. Making this statement gave me a break to rest my body but not lose the importance of my relationships.

Keeping connections strong

I try to do things with family and friends when my body allows it. Getting myself out there helps me to remember what life was like before PsA. Showing people that I could still meet up and have fun assures them that our "ship has not sailed" (yes, that was corny, but relationships count).

Having a steady group of people to support you is so helpful. When you have connections you can call in during the hard times, it means the world.

Preserving your relationships is great but also be aware that you may lose friends too. That is awful to hear, but remember you need support, and if that person is uncomfortable, you may be better off. Always remember that you are not alone in your fight.