Best Advice for Newly Diagnosed Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis

This episode including tips for to cope with the initial diagnosis, how to best educate yourself about your condition, ways to utilize social support without getting overwhelmed,  how to best collaborate with your provider and make treatment decisions, and finally how to take care of your mind and manage stress. 

Episode breakdown:

• 1:10 - Episode Introduction
• 2:08 - Analogy for those newly diagnosed - a tourist in an unplanned for land
• 4:08 - Advice for the initial adjustment period
• 6:30 - Tips for educating yourself about your condition
• 10:00 - How to best utilize social support, including social media
• 18:15 - How to best interact with your providers and medical team.
• 20:15 - How to choose the best treatment ideas for you
• 31:44 - Tips for managing stress and taking care of your mind
• 40:00 - Concluding thoughts

Medical disclaimer:

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Episode Sponsor

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! 

Links discussed in this episode:

• "Welcome to Holland" essay by Emily Perl Kingsley
• Free handout: 6 Things Everyone with Arthritis Should Know
• Free handout: Master RA Management Checklist
• Free Facebook Group: Arthritis Life Podcast, Practical Tips and Positive, Realistic Support
• A great letter to newly diagnosed patient from my friend and fellow Chronic Illness advocate Chronic Eileen: The Letter I Wish I sent to Myself the Day I was Diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Thank you so much to those who contributed their words of wisdom!

From Instagram: @hopeamidthepain, @Rheumatoiddiaries, @TheNarcissistGames, @Sje70, @deepa.venkatraman, @drmaggiecadet, @A.shrummer, @Jbayze2018, @worldofot, @boop911, @Kimesue, @Mommywithmctd, @ra.and.me , @Paulaburza, @_chronically_happy_, @warriorsmovemountains, @graceandable_official 

From Facebook: Monica Thomas, Laura Muller, Christopher Vance.