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You are Not Alone Arthritis Support Groups
You are Not Alone Arthritis Support Groups
Millions of Americans suffer from arthritis and arthritic conditions every
day.
The important thing to remember is that you are not alone in your
suffering.
Although at times you may feel like the only person who is affected by this
disease, there are others who feel the same way.
Arthritis can be a very hard disorder to understand and many patients who suffer
from arthritis feel alone and confused. However, with a little outreach, you can meet and talk with
others who also suffer from arthritic conditions.
By joining one of the many arthritis support systems, you can feel better about
your condition and have a better outlook on life.
The Arthritis Foundation is the only non-profit organization that was formed
specifically for those who have arthritis. There are over 100 different arthritic conditions, and
the Arthritis Foundation works hard to address the needs and concerns of people who have each
kind.
This organization helps distribute information about arthritic conditions, as
well as works as an advocate for arthritis patients.
They also sponsor medical research on this condition in the hopes that we can
someday prevent and cure arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation partners with many other organizations
and companies to bring patients the services they need.
Their website is helpful for both those suffering from arthritis and family
members or friends who want to learn more about arthritis or donate money towards arthritis
research.
Online you can also join this organization and benefit from their many membership
services.
If you are looking for something on a more personal level, however, your first
step to finding a local arthritis group is to talk with your doctor or another medical
professional.
Often times hospitals will sponsor such groups to help people cope with disease
and illness. Arthritis is no different. At a local group, you can meet others who are dealing with
arthritis and get feedback on how to cope in daily life.
These community groups also go on trips and to events and they cater especially
to your specific needs. Other members of the group can be lifelong friends and help you live more
optimistically.
You can check your local newspaper if your doctor does not have information about
such a group or you can start your own.
If no such support exists in your neighborhood, there might be a strong need from
someone to lead this type of a project. Support groups are especially important for children
suffering from arthritis.
Because arthritis is often seen as a condition that develops in old age, many
children with arthritis feel outcasted from other childhood friends but cannot connect with typical
members of a support group since they are usually much older.
The childrens wing of your hospital may be able to direct you to a children or
family support organization.
No matter what your age, you can benefit from the community of a support group
when you have arthritis. Look online or talk to your doctor for more details.
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