Arthritis sufferers are twice as likely to feel suicidal

PEOPLE with arthritis are being urged not to suffer in silence as research reveals that they are twice as likely to feel suicidal than those with healthy joints.

A study of almost 4,000 people found that 5.6% of people with arthritis had suicidal thoughts compared with just 2.4% of those not suffering from the chronic condition.

The authors from the National University of Athens in Greece and the US National Institute of Arthritis, said middle-aged people who have had arthritis for just a short period of time were at greatest risk of suicidal thoughts.

The study found that arthritis sufferers are most likely to feel suicidal between the ages of 40 and 52 and when they had the condition for less than four and a half years.

Arthritis Ireland is encouraging people with arthritis experiencing loneliness, fear or pain to talk to their family and friends and to call their helpline (1890 252846).

About 850,000 people in Ireland are living with some form of arthritis that can impact on employment and family relationships.

Spokeswoman for the organisation, Lisa Mehigan, said some people found the loss of their mobility sapped their confidence, making them less likely to socialise.

“We believe that we have prevented two potential cases of suicide through out national helpline,” she said yesterday.

Ms Mehigan said living with arthritis could cause a person to become withdrawn from their community, with chronic pain, fatigue and frustration at not being able to do little things all contributing to their lack of independence.

“We are always telling people with arthritis is that they don’t have to suffer in silence and that their first port of call should be our helpline which is run by volunteers who have arthritis themselves and can offer the understanding and empathy of someone who knows that they are going through,” she said.

Ms Mehigan said Arthritis Ireland had specific self-management courses that gave people the tools, the understanding and the information that empowered them to be an active manager in all aspects of their condition.

“Whether it is coping with negative emotions, pain management, exercise as therapy or social engagement, this course helps people to take their life back,” she said.

* arthritisireland.ie.