Today, more than ever, the emphasis on mental health, and emotional, and psychosocial well-being is paramount. Children and youth with arthritis and its associated diseases should not be left behind in this critical conversation.
Supporting the emotional and psychological health of these children is fundamental for our collective prosperity, as highlighted by the African proverb: “We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”
Emotional and Psychosocial Challenges Faced by Children and Youth with Arthritis
Children and youth with arthritis face numerous emotional and psychosocial challenges, including:
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Catastrophizing
- Depression
Some signs and symptoms of these challenges include withdrawal, frequent anger outbursts, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, loss of appetite, poor attention, aggressive behavior, poor sleep, and even bed-wetting. Families may experience significant stress and turmoil when a child is diagnosed with arthritis, and children may blame themselves for the challenges their families face.
Recognizing Emotional and Psychosocial Issues
The first step in addressing these challenges is recognizing the problem. Talk to your child and ask if they have felt any of the following:
- Isolated and lonely
- Angry
- Discouraged
- Helpless or hopeless
- Sad
- Overwhelmed
- In pain
- Low self-esteem
- Worried
It is crucial to acknowledge and validate these feelings to start providing effective support.
Strategies for Providing Psychosocial Support
- Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques can help reduce the effects of stress on the body, manage pain by changing pain messages relayed to the brain, increase energy and alertness, improve concentration and memory, and enhance sleeping patterns. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can be particularly beneficial.
- Counseling or Psychological Therapy
Professional help from psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and nurses can address emotional issues. They can provide various forms of therapy, including:
- Counseling for Emotional Issues: Professionals can help children cope with anxiety, depression, and stress through one-on-one sessions or group therapy.
- School-Related Issues: Social workers, psychologists, and nurses can assist with school-related challenges, such as managing workload, helping teachers understand the child’s specific needs, dealing with challenges with friends, and addressing bullying.
- Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy includes group, family, and individual sessions with experts. It usually involves discussing issues and dealing with life events. Psychotherapy can also include expressive activities like art, dancing, or singing.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is based on the idea that thoughts influence feelings and behaviors. By examining and changing negative thought patterns, CBT can help children with chronic pain, depression, and anxiety.
- Patient Support Groups
Patient support groups have been shown to improve emotional health, enhance disease self-management, decrease isolation, and provide support and understanding, all of which can positively impact the quality of life.
- Models of Support Groups: Various models include face-to-face peer-led or professional-led groups, telephone-based support, and web- and email-based programs.
- Peer Mentoring: Peer mentoring involves patients acting as coaches, sharing their experiences and knowledge about living with arthritis. This approach can be especially beneficial in providing role models for disease self-management.
Practical Steps for Providing Psychosocial Support
- Create a Supportive Environment
Ensure that the child feels safe and supported at home and in other environments. Open communication and validation of feelings are key.
- Encourage Social Interaction
Encourage the child to maintain friendships and participate in social activities. This can help reduce feelings of isolation and improve mood.
- Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Encourage a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep. These factors can significantly impact emotional and physical well-being.
- Educate About the Condition
Provide age-appropriate information about arthritis to help the child understand their condition and feel more in control.
- Involve the School
Work with school staff to ensure they understand the child’s needs and can provide necessary accommodations.
- Utilize Technology
Leverage technology for virtual support groups and therapy sessions, especially if in-person meetings are challenging.
The Importance of Family Support
Family support is crucial for children with arthritis. Families can provide emotional support, help manage medical appointments, and assist with daily activities. It’s important for family members to:
- Stay Informed: Educate themselves about juvenile arthritis and its impact.
- Provide Emotional Support: Listen to the child’s concerns and offer reassurance.
- Encourage Independence: Allow the child to take part in decision-making and daily activities as much as possible to foster a sense of independence.
Supporting the emotional and psychological well-being of children with arthritis is as important as managing their physical symptoms. By recognizing the emotional challenges these children face and implementing strategies such as relaxation techniques, counseling, psychotherapy, and support groups, we can help them lead healthier, happier lives. Family and professional support, along with a focus on a balanced lifestyle, can make a significant difference in the quality of life for these young individuals.
Hope Arthritis Foundation’s Mission
At Hope Arthritis Foundation, we are dedicated to transforming the lives of children with rheumatic diseases. Our mission is two-fold:
- Improving Quality of Care: We strive to enhance the quality of care for children with rheumatic diseases through advanced treatments and comprehensive care.
- Empowering Healthcare Workers: Through our boot camps and masterclasses, we educate healthcare professionals to better manage pediatric arthritis and its complications.
If you are a parent, caregiver, or healthcare professional, understanding the complications of childhood arthritis is crucial for providing the best care possible. Join us in our mission to improve the lives of children with rheumatic diseases.
Through our boot camps, masterclasses, and online academy, learn the skills to identify and manage the top conditions in pediatric rheumatology, including:
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA),
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE),
- Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM),
- Vasculitis